A contemplation of Mysteries: containing the rare effects and significations of certain Comets, and a brief rehearsal of sundry Historical examples, as well divine, as profane, very fruitful to be read in this our age: with matter delectable both for the Sailor, and Husbandman, yea and all travelers by Sea and land, in knowing aforehand, how dangerous a tempest will succeed, by the sight of the cloud coming over the head, and other matters fruitful to be read as shall appear in the Table next after the Preface.  
Gathered and englished, by Thomas Hill.  
¶ Imprinted at London by Henry Denham.  
TH. Aetatis svae 42   portrait of Thomas Hill Virescit vulnere veritas.  

To his singular friend master Henry Fynche Merchant, Thomas Hill wisheth health and felicity.  
IF among friends, there needs great and ample gifts, then will not my poverty furnish your expectation. Large gifts I have none, the greatest I am able to show, is good will, the which is gift great enough, among right friends. Therefore forasmuch as I have always counted you, as one of my dearest friends, and you likewise have accepted me among your friendly fraternity (I thank you therefore) I trust this my remembrance, shall be a sufficient token and pledge of my good william. It is not long since I for want of better furniture, offered you the like token, the which was of you so gently received, as I am not able to tell well, whether I were more sorry I had no better gift to gratify you withal, or whether I more marveled at your courtesy (in so well esteeming) so small a thing, If I had had better at that time, better would I have bestowed, as now I would also, but as you received that simple and rude thing then in good part, at my hands, of I again, trust you will do now no less, at this time, renewing that friendship, which unequally of person, had almost separated and loosed, in so doing, I can but wish you well, the which prayer as I am bound I will always bestow upon you. Thus in few words I end, committing you to God, who grant you long health, and prosperity in this life.  
Yours most bounden Thomas Hill.   

The Preface to the gentle Reader.  
Thought it good (gentle Reader) to admonish I thee in two or three lines, what mine intent & meaning is, in renewing again of this little Treatise: for although an indifferent reader may judge thereof, yet all men's natures not being a like to avoid the cavils of busy heads, and the biting speeches of Zoilus brood, I am advised to interpret mine own meaning: My purpose according to my duty is to do good, nature bindeth, my country challengeth, & every good man according to his talon & power aught to fulfil the same. God threateneth: the divine to such as will hear, crieth repentance: to such as can not away with that kind of speech, but desireth sweeter and more delectable gear, the Player with his stage matters, by an other kind of more pleasant means admonisheth, and by a plain demonstration putteth every man in mind of his vocation. I professing no divinity, nor yet acquainted with playing invention, have by an other means (if it were possible) put thee in remembrance of thy duty to Godward: we see God's mercifulness, he seldom punisheth but sendeth before his messengers, tokens and wonders to forewarn us, if we were not dulheades, we might perceive the same, but if we had grace, we would endeavour ourselves to amendment.  
Before God destroyed his own City jerusalem, he caused to appear in the element wonderful and terrible visions. Before the imperial seat of Constantine was translated, signs and tokens were seen in the air. God (as we may read in Chronicles) seldom or never made alterations in kingdoms, but he before sent in embassage, his threatening Creatures. To seek for old and foreign examples we need not, seeing we have enough of late days at home, fresh in our memories, as first he by burning his own house, brought a present terror into the minds of many, and forced them to call on his name, and generally foreshowed, that as he spared not that place, wherein his name was daily called on, no more would he spare the people, that despised his laws and ordinances (and soon after) it came so to pass, for when the warning would not be taken, he punished more severely: he sent a gre● mortality, and sweeped or took away a great number.  
God is just and merciful, for just he is in punishing, and merciful in forgiving. The continual bearing of monsters, the troublesome Elements, these last two Summers, the unseasonable weather: and last of all, the late strange and wonderful inundations, do threaten God's justice, in punishing the offenders, and his clemency and mercy, by favouring us so gently. God notwithstanding, that he threatened Niniveh, by the mouth of his Prophet, yet did he mercifully forgive them, upon their repentance. God pour out his spirit upon us, and give us his grace to acknowledge and bewail our offences, so shall we be spared with Niniveh, and the Lord will turn away all his threatenings, into forgiveness. It is high time we repent: God threateneth, we are in danger, compassed on every side, all things are ready, nothing wanteth but God's permission.  
I have been somewhat longer (gentle Reader) than at the beginning I promised or purposed: yet take this (for brevity sake) but for an entrance, of a great deal more, that might aptly be here uttered: the rest untouched, I commit to thy judgement and understanding. Thus resting, I crave none other than your friendly report, in furthering this Treatise.  
Vale feliciter.   

The Table.  

THe sundry definitions, effects, and significations of Comets. Fol. 1  
The explication or plain declaration of the definition. 1  
Of the continuance, & motions of Comets. 2  
The place where Comets often engendereth. 2  
How some interpret the motion of Comets. 3  
The end, effect, and significations of Comets. 3  
Sundry examples of Comets. 5  
Other prodigious tokens. 7  
Of the marvelous nature of Welles, Rivers, Lakes, and waters. etc. 15  
Of certain fiery impressions, and first of the same, named of most men the foolish fire. 21  
The cause of Castor and Pollux, and where these engendered. 24  
Of the flying Dragon in the air, what the same is. 25  
Of the fire cleaving and hanging on the parts of men, and beasts. 26  
What is to be thought of the flame or fire, which cleaveth to the hears of the head and to the hears of beasts. 27  
Of the fearful gaping, and deep opening of the Elements. The definitions. 28  
A difference between the gaping, and deep opening. 29  
What the efficient cause is. 29  
What the matter and form is. 29  
What the end of the gapings be. 30  
How many rainbows may be seen together at one time. 31  
Whereof many Rainbows proceed. 31  
That three Rainbows may appear at one time. 32  
In what time of the year, Rainbows for the more part are caused. 32  
Are not the Rainbows caused through the beams of the other stars. 33  
Of the winds. 34  
Certain properties of the winds. 34  
Certain observations of the winds. 37  
Of the impressions, named Parelia, and Paraeselinae. The definitions. 48  
The similitude. 42  
The end and effect of these. 42  
Certain examples of these. 43  
Of thunder what the same is. 45  
The kinds of thunder. 46  
What the final cause of the thunder. 48  
What the colours of the clouds warn and foreshow in the thunders. 48  
Certain foreknowledges of thunder. 50  
Of that lightning named Fulgur, what the same is, and of the others. 52  
Of the fearful and violent lightning. 54  
What the lightning Dart is. 60  
The manner of the engendering of the Stone. 60  
Of the marvelous force, nature, and miracles of the lightnings. 61  
What an Earthquake is. 65  
How many kinds of Earthquakes there are. 66  
What the ruin is. 66  
What the Gaping is. 66  
What the Pulsation is. 67  
What the fourth kind is. 67  
What the material cause is. 68  
What the formal cause is. 69  
Which the object or place is of the Earthquake. 70  
How the engendering is, or of the manner of the engendering of Earthquakes. 71  
What the final causes are. 72  
What the effects are. 74  
Which the signs be of an earthquake. 74   
FINIS.   

¶ A brief Catalogue of rare wonders, and fearful sights, seen aswell on earth, as in the element.  

The sundry definitions, effects, and significations of Comets.  
A Comet, after the opinion of Albertus, is an earthly gross vapour, whose parts much gather to it, ascending from the lowest part of heat, unto the upper part of the same: where, the fire that toucheth the hollowness, there shed forth and burning, so that it often showeth long, & sheddeth out.  
2. A Comet is a hot and dry matter, fat, discous, and earthly, whose parts be thick, drawn up by virtue of the celestial bodies, unto the upper region of the air, where through the dearness of the fire, and might of the substance set on fire, and carried circularely with the motion of the upper region of the air, which drawn by that motion, is so carried about.  
3. A Comet, after the opinion of Leopoldus, is an earthly vapour, having gross parts mightily thickening together, ascending by virtue of stars, unto the upper part of heat, where being kindled, and carried circularely with the air: signifieth the alteration of kingdoms, and other great matters in this world.  
4. A Comet is an earthly exhalation, hot and dry, fat and clammy, with the parts thick gathered, by virtue of the stars, and drawn from the bowels of the earth by little and little, and particularly unto the upper region of the air, where, nighest the fire, through the disposition and multitute of the matter is dilated, & being kindled burneth, & with a long tract shed forth, is circularly moved, after the condition and manner of a star, under which, it is gathered, or under the circular motion of the upper region of the air.   

The explication or plain declaration of the definition.  
THis larger definition and description, containeth the causes and manner of the increasing of the Comet, and the same sufficient clearly: for it must needs ensue, that the substance of a Comet, to be an earthly and viscous exhalation, or otherwise it would soon be wasted, of the burning colour: and the space of time is most short, in which a Comet is seen, as not continuing above seven days: yet a Comet appeareth, and is seen many times for. 40. days together, or somewhat longer, until all the substance of it in the burning, be in the end consumed, being also drawn with this circular motion most swift. Although Pliny witnesseth, that Comets have been seen, which were as immovable in the place.   

Of the continuance, and motions of Comets.  
CArdanus writeth, that the longest time of them (except by miracle) doth scarcely exceed six months, so that (for the most part) the substance of a Comet, is spent by the thirty day, or sooner: but never ending before the seventh day. The motion of a Comet, is three manner of ways: the one from the Cast, into the West: the second from the West, into the East: and the third divers, as from the West into the South, or from the North into the West: the exceeding greatness, and most speedy increase of them is marvelous, in that appearing at the first, but a foot broad, do after a few days, occupy a fourth part of the Zodiac.   

The place where a Comet often engendereth.  
A Comet (after the mind of Cardanus) is oftener engendered in the North, and especially (in that part of heaven) named the Milky way, from the tropics without: yet are they gathered and caused, sometimes under the Equinoctial, & sometimes nigh the Winter Tropic, and else where: but oftener (as I have said) about the North, in which part I observed (saith Cardanus) three Comets in three several years. In the night, after the Evening, are Comets apparently seen: yet not the like in the day, except by a mighty means and occasion. It is manifest, that many Comets may be seen together: as in the age of Carolus Martellus, in the month of januarie, were two Comets seen within fourteen days together, of which the one went before the Sun, and the other followed him, with the ●ayles looking and stretched toward the North: and this happened in the year of man's redemption, seven hundred twenty and six. Two other Comets appeared together, in the year of man's health, 1337. which not in a short time, in that as companions they ended together after two months complete. And to the learned it is well known, that if they happen with an Eclipse, then through the virtues doubled, they produce much more, and dangers long continuing.   

How some interpret the motion of Comets.  
THere be some (saith Cardanus) which thus writ of Comets: that if they tend toward the South, such signify rain to ensue: if unto the North, than drought to follow, if unto the East, than the pestilence, and other mighty dangers: if unto the West, than the best or a happy year, and temperate. And the like Porphirius (that worthy Philosopher) wrote, but as I suppose deceived in this, seeing a Comet proceeding against the order of the signs, doth signify the mutation of laws: for that cause, the Comet which tendeth from the East into the West, signifieth the alteration of laws, in that it is carried against the order of the signs: so that when it may signify the same alone, it happeneth that a temperate year followeth, yet doth it not signify the temperament of the year. The kinds and sundry forms of Comets, may you learn in my book of the Mirror of time, with other profitable matters.   

The end, effect, and significations of Comets.  
THe end of Comets, is to prepare drought, the Pestilence, hunger, battles, the alteration of kingdoms, and common weals, and the traditions of men. Also winds, earthquakes, dearth, land●louds, and great heat to follow. The said Comets portend, both many other harms, and that mighty to men.  
2 A Comet is the note of a great drought in that a mean heat cannot resolve such ● matter out of the earth, and drain th● same up.  
3 The second effect of a Comet is barrenness of the earth, hunger, and the dearth of victuals, in that the earth is caused barren through much drought, and lack of moisture, for drought is as the stepmother unto all fruits, and corn of the earth● but moisture is the apt mother unto all fruits, and crescent things on the earth. So that such a mighty heat, doth exceedingly dry up the earth, and consumeth the moisture in plants, and trees, through which, they decay, and hear no yield, no●store of fruit. Or thus.  
A Comet doth cause harrennesse of the earth, in that unto a Comet, a great and much exhalation is required, by whose elevation from the earth, the fatness of the earth is so drawn up, which thus elevated, the earth after becometh harren of yield, and the moisture with which the earth aught to be battened, is then through the overmuch drought utterly deprived. For which cause, a Comet is the fore note of hunger, and dearth in the same Realm: which it specially beholdeth or stretcheth the tail towards, and from whence it gathered and took his substance.  
4 Comets do portend the murrain of beasts, in that the air ensuing is infected and evil disposed, through the hot, gross, and cloudy exhalations: which when beasts draw thereof, are then intoxicated and infected, and so die. Also for that the time than is exceeding hot, and the radical moisture is on such wise drawn up by the hot air, from the bodies of men and beasts, in whom the natural moisture is placed, as in the proper seat: of the same beasts, and other living creatures die: for which cause, it is the mind and council of the learned Physicians: to use in the same time, moist and cold meats, whereby the radical moisture may so be increased and preserved.  
5 Comets move battles and seditions, and altar Emperies, and kingdoms: for that in the time of a Comet, are many exhalations in the air, hot & dry, which do dry men, and kindle heat in them, by which they are lightly provoked to ire: after which ire ensueth variance, next of the same followeth battle, and after battle succeedeth the translation or alteration of governments, when as the Empery ensueth the conqueror.  
6 Comets do portend the death of princes, kings, governors, & other Magistrates of a common weal: in that these lead a more dainty life, and feed on finer meats continually, through which they sooner be infected. The death besides of princes, and head governors, through the difference of many, is of worthier report and fame, and for that cause more observed. To these I add, that the Choleric persons are then vehementer moved, through which, the perturbations or troubles of mind ensue, that procure seditions and battles, after which proceed oftentimes the slaughter of many, and death of princes: for that these many times be present in battles, and are lightly provoked to ire, by which the battle ensueth the fiercer: and on such wise, many come to their death. Macrobius left in writing, that the death of Constantine, was indicated by a Bushy star, of an exceeding bigness, that appeared in the year after Christ's birth. 304.   

Sundry examples of Comets.  
THat singular Philosopher Augustinus Niphus writeth, that after the appearing of a Comet, in the year 1506. there followed within two years, such a mighty drought in Lombardy, that from january unto the month of November, there fell no rain at all, in that Country.  
In the year of our Lord. 1165. appeared a mighty Comet or blazing star in Scotland, reaching & burning out with two most long beams or tails: after which, (within xiiij days) Malcolmus the fourth king by name of the Scots, died a maiden, as the Chronicle reporteth.  
In the year of our Lord. 1214. in the month of March, appeared two fearful Comets in Scotland, the one going before the Sun, and the other following him: after which (the same year) when as that most happy and good king William had reigned. 49. years, he then died an old man.  
In the year, 1268. there appeared a Comet of a marvelous bigness about the noonstead, which was seen for many days together in Scotland. And in the year of our Lord. 1271. after: and in the ix. day of januarie, there arose such a cruel wind, and mighty tempest withal, and hail stones of such a bigness, that through the same many houses in Scotland were thrown down, & burned with fire, through the winds which kindled after the same, that they there kept in their houses, for the use of fire: that the whole Country in a manner, was wasted by the fire.  
In the year of our Lord 1538, and in the eighteen day of januarie: there appeared a Comet after the setting of the Sun, which was placed in the sign Pisces, and the tail looking or stretching toward the East, after which, died immediately the Duke of Saronie.  
In the year of our Lord. 1539. and the sixth day of the month of may, appeared a Comet in the sign Taurus, not far from the head of the Dragon, which endured burning, for three weeks in a manner: after which died Isabella of Portugal, the wife of Charles the fift Emperor, in the travail of child.  
In that year died George Duke of Saronie, of an old and crude rapture: before whose death, as some writ, there appeared three Comets, after the appearance of which, died the Duke of Cleave, the bishop of Trident, and divers other noble persons and Captains.  
In the year. 1540 began a great conjunction of Saturn and Mars, which happened in Cancer: after which followed a marvelous drought, above many summers before, so that hay, corn, and all kind of pulses, become very scarce.  
And this drought followed rather (as some writ) after the appearance of a Comet the same year, and great Eclipse of the Sun which happened the seventh day of April, whose beginning was before the Sun rising, and endured in this Eclipse two whole hours, after the Sun was risen: upon which followed at prague (a noble City in the kingdom of Boheme) that the Castle with the Cathedral Church, were burned with fire: and many fearful fires happened often, in sundry places, as the same had been by a divine punishment from heaven. And a Commotion happened the same year, among the Citizens of Gaunt, which Charles the fift Emperor stayed by his wisdom.  
Many examples more of Comets, might here be uttered, which for brevity in so small a treatise omitted, and the rather, for that I have at large written of them, and other weighty matters right necessary, in my book to come forth, named the Mirror of tyme.   

Other prodigious tokens.  
IN the year. 1542. were many strange children, and monstrous beasts seen: and in that year it rained blood at Sassen burge in Germany. And in Phriseland that year, arose a certain Prophet, named George David, declaring himself to be Gods near kinsman, and one that could counterfeit the speech of beasts, and birds, affirming also heaven to be empty, and many other blasphemies he uttered besides.  
In the year of our Lord. 1545. and in the seventh day of August, about xi of the clock in the morning, happened such a fearful tempest at Machlin, as the like was never heard of: for a mighty thunder came, which shook the earth, in such manner, that the people of that City, thought dooms day at hand, or ruin of the City present: In that after the same was heard, a horrible crack in the clouds, and a dark lightning, very sore stinking of Brimstone happened, which so feared them, that no●●e knew●● what to think or do, nor what succeeded of the same (save only such, which the tempest had stricken) until the brute and noise ra● in the City, that the lightning had smitte●● the Sandgate, in which lay above eight hundredth Barrels of Gunpowder, whose sudden bursting forth, caused such a mighty confusion in the City, that no man ever saw the like destruction in that Country: for the Sandgate was blown up, at the turning of a hand, into very small parts: and not only the foundation of the same sorent, but the stones of the walls fast by, likewise blown up, and scattered abroad: yea, the pits, & wells with water there about, through the mighty heat of the powder set on fire, were suddenly dried up. And on the next morrow following, viewing the harms about the City, there were found about the compass of the scattering of the Tower, of dead bodies, unto the number of three hundred: and half a hundred grievously wounded. Besides these, a woman minding at that instant, to that the leaf windows of her Hall or Parlour, for the great fear of the tempest, had her head pitifully smitten off And in a certain Inn, were at that time, a certain company playing at Cards, which altogether were found stricken in pieces, and all the other parsons of the house pyttifully dead, except the good wife, which went at that instant, to draw drink for them, in a deep seller, who by that means was preserved. And many other grievous sights happened in that fearful tempest. To conclude, the City was marvelously spoiled thorough out, and no Church in that City, but grievously shaken with this tempest, yea whole streets subverted.  
In the year of our Lord. 1547. at Helvetia in Germany, were seen in the air, two hosts of men of war, and two mighty Lions grievously and terribly fight together so long, until it seemed that the one bit of the others head quite. And in the twelve day of April, the Sun appeared at after noon, for three days together, like a fiery Globe, in such manner, that the Stars, were then seen: after which, followed a grievous battle, between Charles the fift Emperor, and the Duke of Saxony, between Mulberge, and Wyteberge: at the end of which battle, john Frederick elector, become prisoner unto the Emperor.  
At that time also was seen in another place, in a clear day, a white Cross, with a rod by it, in the sky.  
In the year of our Lord. 1548. and in the tenth day of February, was seen in Saxony (a country of Germany) a fire from heaven, that fell on certain cities.  
Also two Hosts of men of war, were seen in Saxony in the air, running and skirmishing together, and divers other strange sights besides, were seen in the air, in that year.  
In the year of our Lord. 1551. and in the xiij day of january, arose a mighty tempest in sundry places of Germany, with many showers of rain, lightnings, and thunders, in so much that the men of that country, thought Domes day at hand, yea to be present.  
And in the xxviij day of january, at Lysebone, in the chief city of Portugal, appeared a bloody rod, and sundry fearful fires seen in the air, and rained there blood, after which followed such a fearful earthquake, that about two hundred houses were grievously shaken & thrown down, through the fall of which, about a thousand persons were lamentably slain.  
And in the xxi day of March, at Magdeburge in Germany, about seven of the clock in the morning, were seven Raynebowes, and three Suns seen: and in the evening (the same day) three Moons, of which the first, and perfecter Moon, was seen towards the city of Magdeburge: but the second as bloody, towards Pago Desdorf: and the third shined bloody, towards the new city (so named) in Germany.  
And in the xxj day of April, appeared again at Magdeburge, three Suns, and three Rainbows: after which, by the commandment of Charles the fift Emperor, was this city besieged, by the Duke of Saxony, and Albert of Brandenburge, for fifteen Months: and at the length a peace concluded, by wicked conditions. For after the peace established, certain of the governors and Captains drew together a battle against Charles Emperor, upon that title, for the defence of the German liberty.  
In the year of our Lord. 1553. was heard a woeful cry, saying woe, woe, twice together: there was heard also the sound of Bells, and the noise of Trumpets: and the same time there happened at Duringia, that the trees, & herbs, sweat blood, and fearful noises heard besides, sundry nights: after which Mauricius Duke of Saxony, fought in battle with Albert of Brandenburge, at which season Mauricius smitten with the pellet of a Gun, died the third day after the battle.  
In the year of our Lord 1554. and in the first day of February, in the City of Cathalane in France, and after the great goodly show and muster of soldiers, by the commandment of the French king: there appeared a marvelous sight, about the Moon, like unto a great fire, arising from the East part, and stretching, or declining toward the west: and the Moon showed like to a most great firebrand: and this fire in the air, burned with a great noise and often casting forth flames, and sparks of fire, in the like manner as a hot burning yroi●barre, beaten on an handueale by a Smith.  
The xxuj day of May, it rained blood, not far from the town of Dunckelspull in Germany.  
And there were seen three fair Rainbows, and so many Suns, and Moons, and two bloody crosses.  
In another place also were seen six, & the sun then appearing fearful in the rising, as one day green of colour, another day blackish or swart in colour, the third morning read, and at the setting bloody: & in other places appeared black round bodies, both reddish and fiery of colour, as they were beating the sun, and seemed fight with him: and it rained besides blood, in many places.  
In the xj day of june, five Miles from Noriberge in Germany, was seen in the sun, a bloody rod, and many companies of horsemen dashing together in the air: which so continued for two hours, that it caused men greatly to fear, that Domes day was at hand: after which died the same year, Frederick Duke of Saxony: & after the same, was a notable town in Germany pitifully wasted by fire.  
In the year of our Lord. 1555. were seen in the city of Duringia, three suns, the tenth day of February, in the same Duringia, was a gaping open of the earth, out of which came a mighty stink, which very much molested the lookers on, with the beating pains of the head: yet certain further examining the place, observed and saw within that great cleft, strange forms in the night, and many great matters besides heard.  
At Luneberge, was seen this strange sight in the air, a great company of Soldiers: at the right hand of which company, stood by an Angel holding a fiery sword in his hand: and a child was there in presence among the people by a sudden means, who did earnestly exhort every one, to hearty repentance: affirming God's judgement at hand, and to be the day of ire, and the day of calamity & misery, and that the same to be a very great and bitter day: when he had thus exhorted the people, he vanished suddenly away, and out of sight: so that no man after, could tell where he become.  
In this year happened at Duringia, the hard and dangerous birth of a woman who had a sore travail in the birth of her child: for after long travails, the child braced forth with a great crack and noise and dead borne: after which issued great plenty of fire, which so harmed the youngling in the neither parts, that blisters arose on the skin, so big swollen, as an Egg in sight, and her own face harmed with the fire: that fire besides issuing forth of her body, infected the proper place, with a Brimstony stink.  
In the Dukedom of Brunswike, was a marvelous and strange sight, marked of many there, which was on this wise. A certain husbandman, which accustomed daily to go unto the wood (to fetch wood home) and drawing near to the accustomed place of the wood (at a certain time) saw a far off, a great company of horsemen, which seemed to come riding in great haste toward the village. This seeing, the husbandman returned for the great fear, hastily backward again: and being come home so amazed, was demanded the cause of his hasty returning, who answered, that there were certain companies of horsemen near the town approached: but from whence they came, or whether they would, he could not say: therefore greatly to be doubted (said he) that these new guests will set upon us in the night time. Which tale so amazed the elders of the town, that for the great fear, they took council together, what was best to do in the matter: after the well debating on the fearful news, they issued altogether out of the town, to know and understand further the intent of these new guests, what they were, from whence they came, and whether they purposed to go: and being thus come forth together out of the town, found and saw a like company of horsemen (as the husband man had before reported) drawing towards them, which seemed to their sight, to be in number four hundred horsemen, riding and coming towards them in due order: after which, they saw the fore front turned, and ready priest to fight, and the other company coming riding a far off, addressed in like order: which companies thus preparing forward to come together, and standing yet in a readiness to fight: two black men (to their sight) alighted from their horses, which seemed to be Captains: and each appeared valiantly to encourage his company to fight: they thus boldened to fight, beheld one the other, as ready priest, and in a readiness: after which, the two Captains again leapt on horseback. While these two companies yet stood in a readiness, a marvelous darkness hastily came in the place, that it seemed far in the night: by which these husbandmen perceived, (y this sight of the horsemen) was none other, than a devilish illusion, or mere falsehood of spirits.  
In the bounds of Polonia were seen a marvelous company of Dogs, barking, and fight together, insomuch that many were torn in that broil to pieces. After which followed, great wars, and slaughter: between them of Polonia, and the Muscovites.  
In Duringia, being a bright day, there appeared in the air, a bright and glittering sword, much like to a Fauchine or Turkey blade: directing the point toward the South, and the edge toward the East.  
And in Cleveland, fell so great abundance of fire from heaven into the Rhine, that the River began to swell, as though it had boiled.  
In the year of our Lord. 1557. and in the ninth day of March: there were seen three suns, and a very fair Rainbow.  
In the xvij day of March, there fell fire from heaven: and in an other place, a fiery Globe was seen: it rained also blood, and lumps of blood, unto the bigness of ones hand, dropped from heaven, unto the sight of many: and in all the drops were seen, like to men's faces. And on saint Laurence day, the Sun appeared wholly bloody: after which, the French king fought a great battle, with Philip king of Spain, and after that, S. Quintin's taken by king Philip.  
In the year of our Lord. 1558. appeared a Comet very fearful, which continued burning many weeks: after which, was seen a strange sight, fearful to behold. For in the xxj day of August, the day being clear and calm weather, and sufficient temperate, two hours before noon, and a quarter: the Sun very clear shining, was then seen enclosed about, with a great circle, which appeared of many colours, like to the Rainbow, and continued in like condition, for four hours, and a half, unto the great fear, and amazement of all such, which regarded the same sight: for it is written, that such strange sights, have in times past been seen, which always were foreshowers of fearful dangers at hand: as appeared by the same, which plutarch writeth, that such a fearful sight foreshowed the death of the mighty Cesar, and the great scarcity and dearth of all fruits of the earth, that ensued the same year: and even the like happened, when Octavius abode at Rome, that the Sun was compassed with such a circle, after which often commosions and tumults, & the lamentable harms of lightnings ensued.  
Such a Rainbow also appeared timely in the morning about the Sun, in the sixth kalends of February, & in the year of our Lord. 1074. after which followed the great conspiracy of Princes, against Henry the fourth of the name, Emperor of the Germains.  
In the year of our Lord. 1107. a like circle about the Sun was seen: after which ensued, the great dissension among christian Princes.  
In the year also of our Lord 1157. on the third kalends of june, about noon, such a strange show was seen: after which, the eversion or destruction of many cities, & the scarcity of fruits of the earth, through the great distemperance of the air ensued.  
Many cities also were pitifully burned in Suetia, after the appearance of such a sight, happening in the year of our Lord 1322.  
In the year of our Saviour Christ. 1387. such a circle about the Sun, foreshowed battles, hunger, fires, and pitiful landfloodes.  
A like circle to Halo appeared, before the battle with the Turks, in the year. 1532. by which is manifest, that such sights are foreshowers of evils to come.  
In the year of our Lord. 1559. with the great tempest risen at Fryburge, certain fiery Globes fell out of the clouds not far from the City, & much or often lightnings with thunder, which lamentably burned the grass, hops, herbs, and leaves of trees: the tempest increased, a hand was seen stretched in the air, for an hour in a manner, which at length by drawing and folding the fingers together (in grinding itself) was turned into powder, which powder falling to the earth, vanished away.  
In the year. 1560. waters broke in, and over ran much ground, in sundry places, to the great hurt and losses of many men, in that their closes and Meadows were much harmed, with the clamminess of the waters bursting in. The same year died that singular, learned, and godly man (worthy memory) Philip Melanchtone, who left behind him these comfortable verses, that he made a little before the agony of death, which he still repeated, until life left him. 
Cur mortem metuam: mors non est, mortis imago est.  
Sed merito vitor Christ benign tuo.  
Vermis adhuc spiro moriturus forte sub horam  
Mors etenim certa est, funeris hora later.  
Ergo Gnate Dei iam me tibi porrigo totum,  
Vivam seu moriar, sanguine vivo tuo.   
In the year of man's redemption. 1561. many Guns through Germany were seen in the air, shooting of pellets into the Sun.  
In the xvij day of December, four suns were seen in the East, casting forth green rods on every side, to the great fear and amazement of the beholders.  
Heaven seemed to burn, & a fiery Globe shined from the North part, with a mighty light in heaven.  
In the kingdom of Naples, were five Castles, and a bishopric sunk with an Earthquake, and a water navigable vanished the whole, in such manner, that no monument or part at all is left to be seen: yea a whole city so sunk into the earth, that no perseverance of it at all remaining at this day.  
From the xuj unto the xviij day of November, the river Tiber cast up a mighty number of dead fishes.  
In the year of our Lord. 1562. Heaven seemed to burn, to the sight of much people, in many places of Germany. And a celestial fyrehrande stretched from the North into the South, shined by night in heaven. A mighty company of armed men or soldiers, were seen in the air, which as some affirm, seemed in the air to shed down much blood from heaven. And the Sun in the month of April, seen marvelous bloody, as well at the rising, as at the setting, for three days together. The image also of our Redeemer crucified, was seen sprinkled all over with blood, in the month of April.  
Whilst the mighty Emperor Ferdinandus kept his royal Court at prague, the chief city in Bohemia, it happened that Peason were miraculously changed into stones, after this manner. A certain husbandman, had brought certain sacks of Peason to the city, to be sold: to whom a Citizen for the penury of victuals came, and required him to cell better cheap, than he had accustomed to do: who that was a cruel and covetous man, prayed to God, that his Peason rather might be changed into stones, than he would cell them one mite better cheap: incontinent after the Citizen departing from him, the Peason were all miraculously changed into stones: a marvelous spectacle in deed of God's wrath and due punishment, for his cankered and wicked stomach.  
To conclude, we may by these fearful, wondrous, and strange sights, as well on earth, as in the air, learn that God by them doth marvelously foreshow, his blessed will, and condign punishment, for the sins of the people: and that in such sort to declare, the calamities to come upon us: by showing aforehand, such strange sights, and fearful threatenings in the air: unto the admonishment of us, for the correcting of sin, if by these and such like, we will be warned at all.   

Of the marvelous nature of Welles, Rivers, Lakes, and waters: to which the Physicians deny, a reason to be assigned.  
divers are the natures, and miracles of Welles, Rivers, Lakes, and waters: the cause of which, is either hid wholly from us, or in search very hard to be understanded: as by Examples here under, shall plainer appear.  
1. First there is a sweet running river in the Country of Italy: which by his property, causeth the Oxen drinking thereof, to become through white of hear, all the body over. Propert. lib. 3.  
2. In Boetia, there is a river named Melas, being of such a property, that sheep drinking of the water of that river, change and bear after black wool.  
3. Seneca writeth of a Well, of such a property, that what person drinketh thereof, the hear of the head shall after become yellow of colour.  
4. In Libya there is a Well, which at the rising, and setting of the Sun, is found hot: but at noon this Well, is tried most cold, and at midnight very hot.  
5. Seneca writeth of certain Welles, being of strange properties: of which the one and first, is a Well of such a property, that who drinketh of the same, doth die through the mighty poisoning thereof.  
The other is a Well of such a property, that throwing pieces of wood into the same Well, they after were turned into stones.  
He writeth of an other Well, being of such a property, that what persons drink of the water of the same, shall after become stark mad.  
An other Well there is, of such a property, that what parsons drink thereof, it giveth them memory.  
He witnesseth also of an other Well, of such a condition, that by drinking thereof, it procureth forgetfulness.  
6. There is another Well of such a nature, that what persons drink thereof, become soon after frantic.  
7. An other Well there is, of a marvelous property, that what persons drink of the water, it suddenly moveth and stirreth forward, the lust of the body: of which condition, the Well of Salmacis in Caria, is misreported to be: the causes of which are the Herbs, Stones, and mines, by which these pass: in which such a hid property procured, of so marvelous effects, consisteth.  
8. In Egypt, there is a Well of such a property, that quencheth light fyrebrands in the same (as reporteth Augustus) they forthwith are put forth: and those quenched, are by the water of the same well kindled.  
9 With the black Moors (named Garamantes) is a Well of such condition, which in the day time is known to be so cold, that no person can drink thereof: and in the night time, it is found so hot, that no creature is able to bear or abide the heat o● the same.  
10. In a certain learned work of Cos●mographye, is reported, that in the Country of Sicilia, was in time past a Well of such a nature: of which when thieves o● robbers had drunk, they immediately become blind.  
11 In Idumea a region in Syria, ioy●ning to Egypt, was a Well in time past● of such a property, that would for three Months together appear troubled, other three Months found bloody, other three Months seen green, and other three Months known and tried clear.  
10. There was a Well known, of such condition, that for six hours the same was found full of water, and running over, and other six hours seen quite empty and dry: the cause of which (as Seneca witnesseth) is the proportion of the vapour elevating the waters: and the ebbing and flowing also of the Sea near by.  
11. In the hill named Anthracius, is a Well reported to be, which is noted of such a property: that when the same is found full of water to the brim, that then it pronounceth a fertile year to ensue: but when the same Well is seen very low, and in a manner empty of water, then followeth a dearth the same year.  
12 In Hungary, is a certain little river or brook affirmed to be, which is noted of such a property, that who casteth iron into the same, it will in short time after be changed into Copper.  
13. Seneca affirmeth, that such a property to be in certain rivers, which altar flocks of sheep by drinking thereof, within a short time, in causing those which before bore a black wool, to possess a white, and that those which came thither with a white wool, departed after with a black wool on their backs.  
14. Theophrastus reporteth, that in Macedonia to be a river of such condition, unto which, those which be minded to have their sheep bear a white wool, bring them to that river, which by that reason, the longer the sheep drink thereof, none otherwise, than as they were infected, are they after changed.  
15. Capadocia is a aryver of such a property, that what beasts drink sundry times of the water, the hears of their skirt, become wholly white.  
16. In Arcadia (as vitrvuius reporteth) is a water named Nonacris, which is found on the hills, sweeting or distilling most cold humours out of the rock stone, this water gathered, is named also Stygis hydor, which (as by experience the same is found) neither a Silver nor Copper, nor iron vessel can retain the same, but that this leaketh and soaketh through it, so that for his strange quality it is found by trial, that none other vessel will retain or keep the same water, saving the hoof of a Mule.  
17. In the Country of Sclavonie, is a Well known to be of such a property, that clotheses spread over the Well (being as some report most cold) are burned.  
18. In the Island named Andro, and in the temple of Liberi patris, is a Well of such a property, that out of the same in the Nonis of january, runneth water like to Wine in taste.  
19 In the hill named Berosus Taurorum, be three Welles of such condition, which are without remedy, and without pain of deadly grief.  
20. Isydore affirmeth in his xiij Book, that in Italy is the Well of Cycero, being of such a property, that it healeth the clefts and chaps, or other hurts of the eyes.  
21. In the Island named Chio, is there a Well of such condition, that the persons drinking of the water of the same, become soon after, dull of memory. And the Well of Circus, is noted to be of such a property, that such drinking thereof, are after bereft of the desire, of the venerial act, as certain write.  
22. In Aethiopia there is a Well read, the property of which, is, that who drinketh of the same, shall soon after become mad.  
23. In Arcadia there is a Well named Lechnus, the property of which is known to be, that what person o● woman with child shall drink of the same, shall not after be delivered before her tyme.  
24. In the Country of Sicilia, are two Welles, of which the one by property doth make fruitful, the barren: and the other causeth the fruitful barren: and these by sundry times drinking of either.  
25. In the Island named Sardinia, are hot Welles of that property, which perfitly help the eyes: yet do those try out thieves, in that their faces be bewrayed, through a blindness, caused by them.  
26. It is manifest (saith Seneca) in his book of the properties of things: that common Welles there be, of such property, which change pieces of wood into a ston● substance: and of such stones (by reports are the best whetstones made.  
27. In the river of the Country of Thrace, and in the Lake Velino, it is reported, that wood thrown into either, is soon after covered with a stony bark.  
28. Plynie writeth, that in the river of Silarus, being a river of Lucania, not only the branches of trees, but the leaves also thrown into it, are changed into stones: but otherwise, is the water wholesome to be drunk.  
29. In the Island named Pontus, there is a river that watereth the fertile grounds; in which the sheep feeding, do yield and feed the people there, with a black milk.  
30. In Aethiopia is a Lake, in which bodies rubbed over with it, shine as they were done with Oil.  
31. Of Clitorio (being a Lake in Italy) is such a property known, that what persons drink of the water of the Lake, abhor wine after, by report.  
32. In Cappadocia (as reporteth vitrvuius) there is a Lake, into which, if part of a reed shall be put, and the next day taken forth, shall be found so hard as a stone, but the other part remaining without the water of the Lake, continuing in his proper estate and condition.  
33. Seneca in his seventh book writeth, that there be certain Lakes, of such condition, which are able to bear up men, not skilful in swimming.  
34. In Syria also is there a standing water, into which if Tiles be thrown, they do not sink, but rather swim above, although they be heavier.  
35. The Rhine Belgas, divideth itself from the Germans, and marvelous is the same, which is reported to be written of this river: for they affirm (of the due proof made) that the Infants of the French women (named Celtoe) dwelling fast by this river, thrown into it, if so be those younglings were unlawfully gotten, this river than would swallow and let them sink, as a due revengement, for the polluting of the chaste bed: but such Infants in wedlock gotten, and by lawful order, this bore to shore in safety, to the wonder of the beholders: This is reported to be written, in a certain Epistle of Politianus, unto jacobe cardinal.  
36. There is a river in Seythia, running from a great Maryse: which bringeth forth certain husks, greater than any common kernel, out of which do birds with four feet issue or he hatched, which increasing and waxing strong, do fly about until the after noon: for after the sun declining low into the West, these birds than Wax lean and feeble, and after the Sun setting, are they all dead, so that these by due proof are known, not to live above a day.  
37. The river Matronas Celtas, divideth itself from that river Belgas: which for the strange property, greatly to be wondered at, in that the common sort affirm, that this river to be as a destiny, or mighty hazard of life to many, for so much this river daily purchaseth to it some pray, as hath been noted of a long time, by those dwelling fast by.  
38. In the Mountains of Modena in Lombardy, in a place named Mount Zibbius, is there a Well, out of which runneth a lively and singular water, in this do men (at this day) gather a mighty quantity of Oil, which is known of many to be of a miraculous virtue, in that the same worketh so marvelous effects on man's body, as in healing all aches, the most griefs and diseases of the body: and in the healing also of wounds and sores, not inferior to the artificial Balm: this of most men named the true Oil of Peter.  
39 In the Country of Burgony, there is a certain burning Lake: in which if a flaming or burning firebrand be quenched, the same immediately goeth out, or is quenched, through the moisture consisting in it: and a firebrand ready quenched, dipped in this, doth immediately kindle & burn, through the fiery Brimstonie heat, consisting also in it, which is found hot, and dry, in the fourth degree.  
40. There be certain waters known at this day, which have the taste of Wine: in that they run by some sweet juice in the earth. As by a like in Paphlagonia, is reported to be a Well of a wynie taste: which causeth the persons drinking of the water, to become soon after drunk. The cause of which drunkenness is, that the same containeth much of the spirits, of the Brimstonie passages, which on such wise fill the brain of the creatures with sums▪ And a like to this is reported, that the ryue● Lincestius, to have waters coming to it of such a property, that they make persons drunk, even like Wine.  
41. In the Country of Boëmia, is a Well of sharp taste, near that City which they name Bilen, the water of which (the inhabiters thereabout) use in the morning, in the steed of burning Wine, or Aqua vitae.  
42. Aristotle also writeth, that in the Country of Sicilia, to be a soower Well, which the poor people use, in the steed of Vinigar: as others witness, of the same.  
43. In Scythia also some report, that there to be a bitter Well, the water of which running into the river, not far distant, causeth it to taste bitter.  
44. Certain Welles and rivers there be, exceeding hot, especially those which issue and run out, by Brimstonie veins of the earth, and other hot places: the waters of which, are much piercing and drying, by reason of the property: through which these profit, unto the drying up of corrupt and rotten humours, in diseased bodies. And such hot or bathwaters, are at certain times drunk: that they may supply evacuations and cleansings of the body, and reduce it unto a suit temperateness.   

Of certain fiery impressions, and first of the same, named of most men, the foolish fire.  
THe light going before, and following after men in the air, especially in the night, do later writers report to be the foolish fire, in that the same often appeareth to sailors, and men traveling by land, as either going before, or following them, and maketh a man a fool, by seducing him. This light also is named Helena, when it (as one Candle) is seen or appeareth alone: which besides is reported to be the firebrand and pestilence of Sailors: For as Helena brought destruction on Asia and Greece, even so hath it been observed, that when this light hath been seen alone, to have caused great danger to sailors. Yet such fires oftentimes, are but fantastical sights, and mere illusions of spirits, as the Author proveth, by sundry reasons.  
And this is not named the foolish fire, of the burning only, but for the longer continuing, going before, and following any person in the air. For those two Candles or lights, are often times seen to go before, or to follow men, walking or riding, especially in the night, and such travailing on the Sea, not without some terror or fear.  
The foolish fire is engendered of a vapour conglutinated or compact together in his parts, which then are kindled: so that not of the cloud meeting it, but of the vehement beating or smiting together of the parts in themselves. And these two Castor and Pollux be engendered in the lowest region of the air, of a fatter fume, unctuous and inflammable: which through the coldness of the night air, is so driven together & thickened. The place where the foolish fire, doth appear: is known to be oftener (by the report of writers) in hot places, and Countries. Yet some agree that this light, is oftener seen in moist places, and regions. In that out of marsh, and fumous places, or out of a clammy ground, the thick and fat exhalation is elevated, being soon kindled: and according to the proportion of the heat, doth it ascend either more or less.  
Or thus, out of a clammy earth, as in Churchyards, Kitchines and low valleys, the thick and fat substance is elevated, which may soon be kindled: and according to the proportion of the heat, doth this either more or less ascend.  
The substance is kindled, through the concourse of two contrary qualities, which contend in themselves: for the vapour is hot, and the night air cold.  
The reason also why this light, doth both follow, and fly from men, is through the motion of the air, which by the walking or running is forced. So that the faster the man runneth toward it, so much the faster both the same impression fly from him: but if he runneth from it, then doth it follow him: in that the air moved, doth force the same substance. An Historical example of this Meteorun, may a man read in Plutarch, which he affirmeth in the life of Lysander.   

The cause of Castor and Pollux, and where these engendered.  
THese two Castor and Pollux, appears like a double fire, in form of two burning Candles, caused of the exhalation, or fatter vapour and unctuous, raised unto the lowest region of the air in the night, which contending with the night cold, is so kindled, that cleaveth sometimes to the cross yards of shippens, and continuing so long burning, through the thickness and fatness of it, until the substance shall be spent. And by a peculiar and vain superstition, the people in ancient time, supposed and ascribed Castor and Pollux, to be the brethren of Helena: in that when the Sailors and Mariners had observed these sitting on both the cross yards, they supposed and hoped that a more happy course and fortunate success of the ship to ensue, through the help (as they thought) of the two brethren, which they believed to deliver them from peril, and hazard of perishing, and for the same accounted them among the number of the Gods. So that these two appearing together, were evermore foreshowers of a safe and prosperous course of the ship: in that by the coming of them, they supposed that other threatening impression appearing alone (named Helena) to be driven away. And for the same, they assigned that power to Castor and Pollux: and named them, the Gods of the Sea.  
For that impression appearing alone, is known to threaten evermore danger: in that the exhalation as yet compact, can not immediately be scattered and spent, whereof through the long tarriance in sight, and thick substance of burning, is the great hazard of perishing at hand.  
But the two lights or candles appearing, do contrariwise signify, in that these declare that the thick substance to be in a manner spent, and the tempest which began to arise broken and quieted, or brought calm. So that after the appearance of them, no danger at all remaineth, but a quiet or calm Sea rather to ensue.  
To conclude, the solitary lights do note matter to abound in the air, of which the tempests are engendered. For when the thick substance of the exhalations, and cause of the untemperateness is in a manner spent, than caulmnesse of the Sea ensueth. But where the exhalation is overmuch compact, which immediately is not scattered, through the long continuance, and the gross substance of burning, there doth it declare a perilous tempest. Whereof Seneca writeth that when in a great tempest, Stars or lights appeared, as they were cleaving to the Sail, the Mariners in jeopardy, thought and affirmed themselves then to be holpen, by the power of Castor & Pollux. But the cause of a better hope is, it appeareth even then that the tempest to be broken, and the winds to cease.   

Of the flying Dragon in the air, what the same is.  
Or thus, the vapour on such wise kindled expelled from a cold cloud, is in the middle bended like the belly of a Dragon, but in the forepart, is the vapour stretched narrow, & representeth the figure of the neck, & from it do sparks as it were by breathing issue forth.  
The flying Dragon is engendered of a vapour, not vehemently hot, drawn up, mightily coagulated, and pressed together, and placed between a cold & hot cloud: Or thus, this great impression of the air, is wrought and caused beneath the middle region, when the exhalation drawn up, unequal, not vehemently hot, and strongly congealed, the two contrary clouds place between: the one a cold cloud expelling the vapour, as contrary to it, from whence the belly of the Dragon beginneth, the other a hot cloud receiving it, and through the smallness, this expresseth the form of the neck, and the uttermost or furthest part, near the cold cloud, appeareth as a tail drawn narrow together. For the property of cold, is to gather or bind hard and narrow together. To conclude, the two clouds do here concur, as the hot and cold cloud. For that cause, the exhalation placed in the middle, inclineth itself unto the hot cloud for the plenty of fire, and doth in the middle concur, and is there bended. For the beginning and end, are near matched or joined to the cold cloud. So that it seemeth in the beginning to breath smoke forth, through the nighness of the moist cloud. The first part seemeth the grosser or bigger, in that the same is new kindled, but the furthest part or end appeareth the straighter or smaller, in that the same is nigh to the quenching out, through which is this bended.  
And the reason why, at the vanishing of the Dragon, a smoke is scattered abroad: is for that the hot and burning cloud, contrary to the cold, procureth a smoke, as the like appeareth in green wood burning: or for that the matter scattered, through the cold cloud smoketh. Of the Dragon invented of the wicked, which they use in divers manners, to purchase them unlawful gain: Physic of the same, doth here utter no reason, as that the same is prepared and made of a vapour and exhalation. For well known it is, that their Dragon to be wrought by the policy of Devils, and enchantments of the wicked, as sundry examples lamentable, do make manifest at this day. As the like, in the year. 1532. in many Countries, were Dragons crowned, seen flying by flocks or companies in the air, having Swine's snowtes: & sometimes were there seen, four hundred flying together in a company.   

Of the fire cleaving and hanging on the parts of men, and beasts.  
THis impression for troth is prodigious without any Physic cause expressing the same, when as the flame or fire compasseth about any person's head. And this strange wonder and sight, doth signify the royal assaults of mighty Monarchies, and kings, the governments of the Empery, and other matters worthy memory, of which the Physic causes, sufficient can not be demonstrated. Seeing then, such fierce or lights are, as they were counterfeits or figures of matters to come: it sufficiently appeareth, that those not rashly to appear or show, but by God's holy will and pleasure sent, that they may signify some rare matter to men.  
This light doth Virgil writ of in the second book of Aeneados, of Ascanius: which had a like flame burning without harm, on his head. Also Livius in his first book, and Valerius Maxi. report, of Tullius Servius a child, who sleeping on bed, such a flame appeared on his head, and burned round about the head without harm, to the wonder of the beholders: which sight pronounced after his ripe age, the coming unto royal estate.   

What is to be thought of the flame or fire, which cleaveth to the hears of the head, and to the hears of Beasts.  
EXperience witnesseth, that the fire to cleave many times to the heads and ears of beasts, and often times also to the heads, and shoulders of men riding, and going on Foot. For the exhalations dispersed by the air, cleave to the hears of horses, and garments of men: which of the lightness do so ascend, and by the heat kindled. Also this is often caused when men and other beasts by a vehement and swift motion wax very hot, that the sweat fatty and clammy, is sent forth, which kindled yieldeth this form. And the like manner in all places (as afore uttered) as either in moist and clammy places, and marshes, in Churchyards, Cloisters, Kitchens, under Galosses, valleys, and other places, where many dead bodies are laid, do such burnings lights often appear. The reason is, in that these places, the earth continually breatheth forth fat flumes, gross and clammy, which come forth of dead bodies: and when the fume doth thus continually issue forth: then is the same kindled by the labouring heat or by the smiting together: even as out of two flint stones smitten together, fire is gotten.  
Cardanus in his .14. book, and .69. Chapter of the variety of things reporteth, that a certain friend of his, after his coming home, about an hour past in the night, put of the cloak that he customably ware, from whose back behind, sprang sparks scatteringly, and whiles he removed, and laid the cloak down again, such sparkles leapt forth, as before. Who at the sight of these, was stricken with a double fear: and by good reason, for within fifteen days after, was he accused of enemies for the detestable practice of poisoning, and for the same earnestly laid in weight, to be slain.  
To conclude, it appeareth that such fires are seen in moist Kitchens, Sinks, or Guttours, and where the Orfall of beasts killed are thrown: or in such places, most commonly are wont to be seen. Such fires cleaving, do marvelously amaze the fearful, Yet not all fires which are seen in the night, are perfit fires: in that many have a kind without a substance and heat, as those which are the delusions of the Devil, well known to be the Prince of the world, and flieth about in the air.   

Of the fearful gaping, and deep opening of the Elements. The definitions.  
THis gaping, or large opening of the air is: when heaven, by a sudden light of the great exhalation kindled under the Clouds, is as it were opened.  
2 The gaping, is when any space of heaven descendeth, and by a sudden light of the great exhalation kindled under the Clouds, as if heaven were opened, appeareth (or that heaven parted a sunder without crack or noise gapeth) and the same part seemeth to throw or cast forth fire, which showeth as it were the mighty burning of some place, to the great terror and fear of the beholders: this at the appearance, pronounceth dry tempests to follow.  
3 The gaping, is when fire, as out of heaven parted a sunder, seemeth to fall, cast forth through a thick cloud.  
4 The gaping or wide opening, is when fire out of heaven parted a sunder, seemeth as it were to fall forth of a hollow Cave.   

A difference between the gaping, and deep opening.  
MAny Philosophers do briefly distinguish them, on this wise: when the parting a sunder in heaven is but small, then is the same named a deep opening. But when the parting in heaven is large, and the deepness of the Clouds great, then is the same named a gaping. So that this Cloud, coming in the middle between, if it shall be small, then is the same named the opening: if great, than the same named the large or wide gaping.   

What the efficient cause is.  
THe efficient cause of this gaping is, the only beams of the Sun, and the other stars: for it hath drawn to the air a light and rare fume, which through his tenuity or thinness, or for the heat forcing within the cloud, or for the agitation of the Cloud near, is it kindled: even as the Gunpowder made of brimstone and nitre, that lighlye taketh, and forcibly burneth.   

What the matter, and form is.  
THe matter is an exhalation, thin and light: which as it is suddenly kindled, even so doth it suddenly burn. This fume doth lightly take fire, and is scattered.  
The formal cause, is that agitation of the fume in the air, which kindleth it. Although this fume may heat, by the own accord: yet heateth it more when the same flieth up unto the upper region of the air, where lightly it is kindled.  
This form is divers, according to the diversity of the matter and place. For when the exhalation falleth thorough a thick cloud, the deepness in heaven appeareth greater, and the greater truly, when the middle parts of the exhalation are thick, and in the compass about thin. And lesser it appeareth, when the thickness of the middle clouds is not so much.  
Or thus the form, is an agitation of the exhalation kindled, which if it fall thorough a thick cloud, the deepness in heaven appeareth the greater. Yea greater, when the middle parts of the exhalation, thick, and in the compass about shall be thin: Or otherwise by a thick cloud, the colour black, the gaping shall appear purple or bloody. As the like purple colour is seen, when the black shall be mixed with a white cloud: Or as the sun sometimes at his rising is seen, or the fire in a gross smoke. Otherwise, the cause of the white colour, is the clearness of the air, through which the light is seen: for when through a clear, and not so black a cloud it is fallen, the light than is named, as a flame shining: Of these may you read more in Seneca.   

What the end, of the gapings be.  
PLynie writeth, that the Gaping to be foreshowers of mighty perils, not that as causes go before, but for the same go before, that these evils may invade and come, that is, happen certain, and for the more part: as be battles, seditions, and infinite like calamities. And such rare sights of the Gaping, and others, often are showed to us, yea without Physic causes, that these may move christian minds to repentance. Yet do many Physically denote at the appearance, dry tempests to ensue: And this is worthy to be noted, that the Astrologians pronounce battles to arise and come out of the same place, where this gaping is seen. Certain examples of like effect, happened in our time: as first in the year. 1529. and in the ninth day of january, between the hour of nine, & ten of the night, a mighty Gaping was seen through Germany, reaching from the East into the North, unto the summer setting in the West. After which, in the same year, ensued that violent breaking in of the Turks into Germany.  
And the Nystoriographers have noted the same, that in the time of Tiberius Caesar, a mighty Gaping was seen: after which such a fire fell to the earth, when Phili● king of Macedon brought Greece in subjection.  
Virgil doth accounted this large Gaping● to be among the number of the fearful, to●kens: in that the death of the valiant Tur●nus, slain by Aeneas, was by the same foreshowed. The Commentatour upon th● second book of Plynie writeth, that an other fearful Gaping was seen in the year 1536. and in the sixteen day of December between six and seven of the clock in the night, stretching from the North into the Winter West setting: after which, within a short time ensued but a small lightning, with thunder: so that little harm, succeeded at that time. The Author saw a terrible Gaping in the East, in the year .1565. and in the .26. day of Nöuember, after five of the clock in the morning.   

How many Rainbows may be seen together at one time.  
ARistotle, whom Plynie followeth, supposeth that three Rainbows can hardly be caused, nor more than three at any time, because the one is evermore darker than the other, in such manner that the third reflection is caused the weakest, that it cannot attain or reach unto the Sun. But experience reproveth both Aristotle and Plynie, in that three Rainbows may well appear or be seen together: yea more sometimes in this our age have been seen, but such accounted for wonders, by which God showeth to men matters to come, as may rightly be guessed. And that the same may be, Vitellio also witnesseth: although he may deny any more Rainbows than two (in speaking Physicallie) that may be seen, differing in the standing of the colours. That is, although three Rainbows shall sometimes appear, yet more differ not in the standing of the colours, than two, or two only have the extreme colours transposed, in such manner that the uttermost of the inner Rainbow, and the innermost of the overcomer Rainbow, is of a read colour. And contrariwise, the innermost of the inner, and the uttermost of the outwarder, is of a purple colour, the green colour always possessing his proper place, that is, the middle.   

Whereof many Rainbows proceed.  
THey are caused of the refraction or breaking again of the Sun beams, from the cloud made bright and coloured by the first, that is, the inner Rainbow into the nearer cloud. And the beams conjoined with the beams, from the Sun into the same place falling, do so imprint or form new colours of the Rainbow, in the same manner as the colours are caused in the inner Rainbow. So that this is the cause, why of the overcomer Rainbow, the innermost colour is read, in that the same is nighest to the sight: and for the same cause, that light is sent or appeareth to our eye the clearer. The other colours are caused by a light imprinted or formed in the deeper parts of the Cloud, and so much the more is it mixed of the shadows, and watery darkness. For which cause these do a little decline unto a blackness.   

That three Rainbows may appear at one time.  
THe first Rainbow is caused, through the refraction of the sun beams, and ●his is brightest of all the others.  
2 The second Rainbow, is the image only of the first, for which cause also it is ●he weaker: in that the same is caused thorough the refraction of the beams of the first Rainbow. So that the colours of this Rainbow appear in the opposite, or order ●●ght against, unto the colours of the first rainbow.  
3 The third Rainbow is the figure and ●mage of the second, and this can scarcely be seen, in that the same is caused through the refraction of the second Rainbow. So that the colours of this Rainbow do appear in the opposite order unto the colours of the second Rainbow, and in the like order by which the colours of the first Rainbow are seen, for the above said reason.  
Thus in brevity, three Rainbows may appear at one time, in that the cloud may be so thick, that the reflection of beams may the larger stretch forth itself.   

In what time of the year, Rainbow 〈◊〉 for the more part are caused.  
PLynie reporteth in his second book, an● 59 Chapter, that in the Summer on th● South part they are not seen, after th● Equinoctial harvest, at any hour. I● the harvest and Winter, are they especially engendered under the East and West part● through the abounding or mighty substance of the rain, which the Sun from ou● highest noonstead descending, occupying then the Sowtherly half of the Zodiac runneth lower, whereby it cannot consu●● by the proper heat. Contrariwise, in th● summer are the seldom seen, when as is of lesser substance, then that which may be scattered by the heat of the Sun, and the Sun also at that time ascendeth unto the highest over our heads: for which cause the Rainbow in the Southquarter cannot be seen, as above uttered.   

Are not the Rainbows caused through the beams of the other stars.  
OF the Moon we have said, that through her beams, especially of the full, a Rainbow may be caused. And even like in our remembrance or time, as in the year of Christ .1523. a night Rainbow was seen. After which incontinent followed a conspiracy of the rustical sort in Alsatia against the Magistrates. In the year following, a commotion of the rustical sort, in the Dukedom of the noble Prince of Wirterbergensis: An other night Rainbow was seen in the year .1524. (in which year) followed soon after, a most raging and ●ruell sedition, which grievously afflicted and spoiled many parts of Germany: And in the year .37. about the ninth hour, ●n Palm Sunday at night, being the ●ext day before the full of the Moon, a like night Rainbow was observed and seen of many. That the Rainbows are not engendered, through the beams of the other stars: may appear, in that such a distance there is of the stars from the earth, that no impression of light can be brought to this dewy vapour. Or thus, their beams through the greatest or furthest distance be weaker, then that they may imprint his light with the small bodies of the dewy vapour.  
Here note, that by the beams of the Moon, especially at the full, a Rainbow may and is wont to be caused, having like colours in a manner (as the Suns) sauin● that the night Rainbow draweth nearer unto a whiteness, as with intensed colours● because the darkness of the night increa●seth the darkness of the cloud, through which the increased light appeareth the wh●●ter, even as a fire or light that is further seen in the night time, than in the da● So that of this moons Rainbow, is o● only colour, as the white, not unlike 〈◊〉 milk, when as the cloud of the nig●● cold may be joined together, heaped a● thickened more, than that the moons lig●● can pierce: for which cause, a whiteness appeareth on the highest plainness of the same.   

Of the winds.  
THe wind is an exhalation hot and dry, moved thwartly or laterally about the earth, which for the gravity of the exhalation can not be carried upward, it therefore falleth downward, & is overthwartly carried. Or the wind is an agitation of a dry vapour, drawn up into the air, by the virtue of the Sun beams. Or the wind is a thwart agitation of the air, through a hot and dry exhalation, which drawn up by the virtue of the stars, is sent back and downward, through the cold of the middle region, ordained by nature, that through the same motion the air may be driven, and clean or pure purged ●n the breathing: the corn also by it rype●ed, and the Art besides of sailing exercised amongst men. The matter or substance of the winds, is a hot and dry exhalation, gross and earthly, forced downward through the coldness of the middle ●egion of the air, whose note is, in that the wind drieth.   

Certain properties of the winds.  
THe cause why any beast, at the South wind blowing, lesser hungereth: is for that the heat than openeth the powers of the skin, that the inner hot spirit may breathe forth and be dissolved. Whereof digestion and natural strength is caused the weaker, and by it bodies filled with a superfluous earthly moisture. And the cause why the southwind, is wont to be vehementer in the night time, than in the day: is for that the exhalation of this wind is so hot, that through the coldness of the night, it can not be depressed. So that by the proper heat drawn up, it riseth and rageth the vehementer. But in the day time through the suns heat thinned, and sometimes spent: whereof with such a force, as in the night it can not blow. The Harvest and Spring, are the aptest times of the year for the winds, seeing in those parts of the year, many exhalations are drawn up, which when of the Sun beams they can not be spent, through his absence, they then give matter to the winds. But in the Summer and Winter, do the winds lesser blow: For in the Summer time, the exhalations are burned by the suns heat, and in the Winter time, the powers of the earth, are shut so close or hard together, thorough the intensed cold, that no matter can breathe forth. And this worthy to be noted and marveled at, that at the blowing of the North wind, Welles and deep pits of water, send up more fumes, then at the blowing of the South wind. The cause why the Northerly winds and Southerly do oftener blow, but the Easterly and Westerly sildomer: is for that the exhalations drawn up by the Sun, and flying the heat of the Sun, fall unto the sides. Or otherwise, that in these places they find a space, and are not consumed or spent by the heat of the Sun, which is caused in the East and West, which places the Sun occupieth twice in the day, and consumeth there the vapours. After when the Sun departeth into the Northerly signs, he is then higher, than that he can let or hinder the ascending of the exhalations. But when he departeth into the Southerly signs, through his nearness unto the earth, the beams than stretch thwart, and through this thwartness, they be so weak, that they can not waste or spend the exhalations. The cause why the winds at the beginning arise softer, and blow weaker, is for that (as we have afore taught) of the causes of the thwart course of the winds. Aristotle uttereth the cause, of the circular motion of the air. For the air together with the swift motion of heaven, is drawn about. So that it is manifest, that all things to be moved together, which be in it. Seeing the exhalation is hot and dry, and through his lightness drawn upward, and by the cold of the middle region (so letting) depressed, it can not of this, descend down right. For this through his lightness, always ascendeth. And carried by a thwart manner, that it can not of the same, descend down right. For which cause, it must needs ensue, that the winds are carried by a thwart course. The cause of the vehemency of the winds, is that the breath or wind forced, through the fortitude of the cold, sendeth forth the exhalation. For how mightier the same depresseth the exhalation ascending, so much the stronger doth the same move forward the air. The winds also are caused the vehementer, through the multitude of the exhalation ascending, which with the same descending, is matched or joined. For on such wise, the strengths are increased: and of the same, it must needs force the air the mightier. The cause why in the great heat, and extreme cold, little wind bloweth: is for that in the same Sea soon the exhalation (the food of the winds) is then spent by the Sun: but in this the earth shut with the cold, can not then breath forth fumes. Or plainer to write, the intensed or mighty heat of the Summer, burneth and wasteth the vapour or exhalation drawn up, before it may give or yield, matter for the winds. And in the time of the cold winter, through the contrary cause: the winds less blow. For the extreme cold of the winter, shutteth the poors of the earth, that nothing can then breathe forth: the cause that winds cease after showers of rain, is for that before the rain, the powers of the earth are opened, out of which, the matter of the winds issueth, which of the rain, especially of the more abundant showers, are then shut together & stopped, that nothing may more breath forth, whereof the wind must needs cease. The cause that after the blowing of the North wind, the other winds cease: is for that the same wind is cold and dry, which then shutteth the powers of the earth, and letteth the breathing forth, except in the spring time. For in the same time, through the order of nature, and the Sun coming then unto us, the earth opening itself, subdueth the matter for the more part, with the Northerly winds. And why the winds be oftener cold, is for that the winds, although they be engendered and proceed of a hot and dry vapour: yet do they breathe cold. The same happeneth or is caused through the far motion of the air, by cold places: even as by the mouth, the wind or hot breath, far of moved or extended, cooleth. Why the West wind blowing, the Dogs then evil hunt: is for that it especially confoundeth the air, and of all the winds it is the most continual or longest lasting, and toucheth especially the earth.   

Certain observations of the winds.  
MOst marvelous is the highest God, which alone made all things, both in heaven and earth, and in the use of the winds, he would in many manners that the testimonies of his providence to be known to us. For when the earth needeth watering, it only not useth and needeth rain; but the winds to help: so that the wind ariseth, by which the clouds are gathered, that showers may shed, and be sprinkled on the earth, and the earth sufficiently fed. Further that the strengths of the earth quail not through the rainy superfluousness, it needeth with the drying, the Sun beams, and winds agreeable, which taketh up the unprofitable moisture, that the same may be dried up, & that like a sponge (the earth) may soak, drink in, and digest the rain.  
2. It much availeth the Physician to consider and foreknow the approaching tempests and winds, the natures and workings of them, agreeable unto each places, that he may hereof foresee the sicknesses or diseases publicly killing in haste, how by Art he may either let and remove them, or if he can not stay them by his skill, then may he ●éeke an apt way and order for the curing of such sicknesses. Of which matter, may you read a like instruction, uttered of Hypocrates, in the time of the pestilence.  
3. A redness about the Sun & Moon, is a note of winds to ensue.  
4. Where in the Summer time, lightnings and thunder happen, there a strong wind shortly after bloweth.  
5. In the Harvest and Winter, lightnings do cease winds: and how mightier the lightnings and thunder are, so much the more do they cease the winds.  
6. Any dreaming of birds, the next day wind to follow, as some report.  
7. In the Winter, winds about the the morning blow● but in the Summer, about the Evening. In the winter, from the East part, but in the Summer, from the West.  
8. Those temporal North winds in the Summer, when they shall blow a long time together, and the Harvest is windy, do declare a calm Winter to ensue.  
9 If the Harvest be calm, the Winter following shall be windy.  
10. The South wind bloweth, when Virgiliae arise, that is in the month of May.  
11. The North wind bloweth, at the rising of Orion, which is, the day following, after the Dog star risen.  
12. The South west wind bloweth in the month of February, when that named Fidicula, beginneth to set, and it is confirmed by the rising of Cinguli Orionis: for after this the earth openeth, and beginneth to send up plants.  
13. When the Moon is joined to jupiter, as the Astrologians affirm, new winds are caused: Even so the Moon running in Cancer, procureth winds. When the Moon cometh unto jupiter in Cancer, you shall see winds to arise without doubt.  
14. The Sun in Capricorno, the Moon in either Scorpio, Capricorno, Tauro or Virgin, do cause most cold winds. The same doth the Sun move in Aquarius, when Saturn shall be right against, & that the Moon beholdeth either of these. Saturn also retrograde in an earthly sign, seizeth winds. The self same, causeth Mars.  
15. Winds are wont to blow for the more part, at the morning and evening: But at noon, for the greater heat of the Sun, the winds than cease. And like at midnight are extinguished, through the extreme coldness.  
16. When the winds begin from the morning to blow, then do the winds longer continued.  
17. The South wind not beginning, but leaving or ceasing, bringeth a shower. For when out of a hot place the wind bloweth, the self same air at the wind beginning, is yet hot.  
18. One and the self same wind may 'cause contrary effects, as both chief and weak, and by itself one, and an other by accidence. Even the like, the East wind from the beginning is dry, but the ending of it is watery. The North wind by itself cooleth: yet by accidence, may it heat▪  
19 All mighty winds cool and dry, and procure or 'cause fair weather: but th● weak winds heat and moystine, and engender rain.  
20. The longer continuing and stronger winds are caused, which begin from the day, than those which begin in the night.  
21. When the North wind blowing, moveth many clouds, signifieth a drought to follow, or great heat.  
22. The Easterly winds be dry, thorough the combustion of the vapours wrought by the sun: for which cause, they produce and 'cause a drought.  
23. The Westerly winds do moystine, through the gross vapours, left behind of the Sun in the night time.  
24. Rain hastily coming, is foreknown by a great cloud, arising from that part of the world, from which the winds arise or come. And how much the thicker and greater the cloud shall be, so much the sooner and certainer shall it give the testimony of a boisterous rain soon after to follow.  
25. The South wind when it bloweth fiercely or sturdilye, and the North wind after beginneth to blow, is a note of a most great tempest, especially on the Sea.  
26. Lightnings with a Northerly wind, do signify rain to follow.  
27. Thunder with an Easterly or Westerly wind, declare rain, or a mighty tempest to follow.  
28. A Northerly year (after the mind of the ancient observers) is far better than a Southerly.  
29. It is good and profitable, to take a purgation, at the blowing of the South, and East wind. For then are the members soluble and loose, and give place to medicine: but the North wind blowing, doth then mightily stop, and let the working of a purgation.  
30. The ancient in times past, have observed the first night of january, which i● the same were clear without rain, and calm without wind, promised a fruitful and prosperous year to follow. If with an Easterly wind, than was the year to come, dangerous to cattles. If with a Westerly wind, than was the year following deadly to kings. If with a Southerlye wind, the people died that year following. If with a Northerly wind, the year to come was known barren, with the scarcity of victuals.   

Of the impressions, named Parelia, and Paraeselinae. The definitions.  
PArelius is a thick impression in a cloud, caused at the one side of the Sun, thorough the refraction of the Sun beams, which then representeth the suns image.  
2. Parelius is a dewy cloudy, thick, whole, placed unto the one side of the sun, and representing his similitude and figure. For the cloud near to the Sun, and turned into water, in which the Sun by the broken beam for the dew thickness, and his wholeness, frameth then a similitude, even the like in a clear air, as the same in a polished Glass: which image thus appearing at the one side, named Parelius.  
3. Parelius is an image and figure of the Sun, expressed in a dewy cloud and bright, when the subtle moisture between our sight and the Sun concurreth, into one body of a round equal cloud, and the like fashioned, standing right afore the sun, from which the sun beams are broken open, as from a Glass unto the eye: So that these then frame and 'cause a like figure to the sun.  
4. Parelius is an image of the sun, placed by the side in an equal cloud, either of the East or West, which is the cause, why many suns sometimes are seen: which truly are caused when a thicker cloud shallbe drawn unto the one side of the sun, in which the Sun beams broken open, do leave the kind & form of a true light. So that the first figure is, a representation of the perfit and true sun. But the second and third is, through the breaking open of the sun beams, placed in the cloud on the one side.  
5. Parelius is (as affirmed Seneca) a round cloud and bright, and like to the sun.  
6. Parelia are named to be those, when many Suns are seen to shine in the clouds, under the East or West: & Parelius is then caused, when a cloud of the one side of the Sun, shall be placed either of the East, or West, especially equal, and a like thick, which as a Glass receiveth and expresseth the image or figure of the sun. For we see both in the water, and in a thicker air, and in other bodies, which consist with a light upper face, and equal, that the matters placed by a just proportion, to be expressed unto them, as in a Glass.  
7. Paraselinae be images of the Moon, caused by the refraction of the moons beams, in a moist cloud near to a light, & equally thick, in which the body of the first or true Moon, is the like seen, as any other body ●n a Glass.  
8. Paraselinai are named many Moons, ●f which only one is true, the others be ●ut figures and images of the Moon, cau●ed by the refraction of the moons beams ●n the cloud. For these reflections are one●y caused of the effectuous beam, like as is 〈◊〉 the Sun or Moon.  
The efficient cause is the celestial virtue, ●nd starry property, that is, the suns ●nd Moons beams, drawing up and preparing a matter, unto such a figure, that represented the form and image of the sun ●nd Moon. The material cause is a thick ●owde, equal and regulare, which is pla●●d by a thwart manner of the sun, so that neither above, nor beneath him, nor right before him it standeth, but placed at the one side. And this matter thick and watery, that the refraction may be caused the better, and this regulare also, that it may the more give and show an uniform image of the sun. And watery, that the Sun may the commodiouser be represented, even as the like is caused in water. So that the cloud prudently is placed on the one side, and not under the Sun, nor right against: for if right against, then would the same be a Rainbow: if under the sun, then would Halo be caused. And this for the more part is caused, in the East or West, through the disposition of the cloud.  
The formal cause, is the refraction of the sun beams in the cloud, being at the one side, which altogether as a Glass receiveth the suns beam, and the colour which then is in the sun, it causeth even the like to appear, as when of a light air, through his thickness, the sight is broken. For the beams falling unto the same cloud thus fashioned, and of the same broken unto the sight, especially in that cloud not being over thick, thin or black, do express the image of the sun.  
To conclude, when a dewy cloud, or vapourous, is in any part pierced, then are the Sun beams gathered in that hole, and by the refraction shed unto the sight: so that such a brightness appeareth, as if the sun itself where seen. For this Parelius is, as the image of the sun, appearing in a great looking Glass. And hereof it is, that many suns sometimes are said to appear together, as two or three. So that the first is the figure of the sun itself; the second and third consisteth through the breaking of the sun beams, in the cloud placed on the one side: by which, three suns or more, are oftentimes seen. As the like by experience was observed, that the king of Polelande saw together six suns, after which followed, that France's the French king was taken prisoner for the tyme.   

The similitude.  
AS the dry exhalation, and that vehemently hot, in pierting the upper region of the kindled star, doth represent a ●orme and spherical figure, through the far lesse: even so a strong and mighty vapour flying into the highest of the middle air, giveth the form of the sun, and causeth a circle to appear.   

The end and effect of these.  
THe final cause Physic, or the material effect of Pareliorum, is the foreshowing, signifying, and pronouncing of rain to come, abounding of a moist matter. For they signify that the air to contain much matter or substance of showers, especially if Parelia shall be placed in the South region of heaven. For the greatest clouds hereof wax overcharged, in that the South air is better and sooner changed into water, than the North air.  
But to the Divines or Theologically, these many times portend and foreshow fearful and strange matters, so that they be often in doubt, what will follow, except any by hap would make a conjecture of them. For as all celestial impressions in a manner, have a certain hid or secret signification in nature, which is not material even so do Parelij always portend som● singular will and effect divine, to be looked for: so that many suns are seldom seen but that either conspiracies be attempted, or the alteration of kingdoms, or some new matters laboured about the subversion, and disposing in religion.  
To conclude, the cause of these is so secret and divine, that the great conspiracies of Monarchies, the dissensions of Kings and Princes, and the fearful uproars and commotions of other Empyries, civil battles, and other lamentable matters to men, are wreshewed by such impressions.   

Certain examples of these.  
IN the year of our Lord. 1157. in the month of September, were three suns together seen, the sky then being very clear, and within a few days after of the same month, three Moons were seen, and in that moon also possessing the middle place, a white cross was seen. After which a great discord followed among the cardinal's, in the election of their high Bishop, and a like controversy among the Prince's electors, in the election of the Emperor of Rome.  
In the reign of Henry the second king of England, and in the Calends of October, for three hours almost, were seen three circles about the Sun, after which, vanished away, two suns seemed to appear. After this sight ensued a discord, between the king and the archbishop of Caunterburie. And Frederick Emperor besseged Mylayne, for seven years almost, and in the end sacked and spoiled the City lamentably.  
In the year. 1169. three suns were seen in the West, in the Nonis of September, and after two hours, two of them vanished, the same which possessed the middle, did set alone in the West, and in the like manner, the next year following, three Moons appeared.  
In the year. 1314. before the civil battle of Lewis of Bavare, and Frederick of ostrich, which contended and fought for the Empire, three ●unnes were seen in heaven, and a dissension also of the electors▪ and other attempts followed.  
In the year of our Lord 1469. at Rome were three suns seen, after which an uproar of the Citizens followed. And the sam● year a battle fought in Italy, Frannce● Duke of milan died, and for the segni●ritie many contended by great conspiracies.  
In the year. 1492. after the middle of December, in Polelande were three suns seen at noon: after which Vladislaus king of Hungary, overcame Maximilian: and Casimirus king of Polelande, left his life or died this year: before whose death a Comet went, which appeared for two Months together after the sun setting.  
In the year. 1514. in the tenth day of january, and seventeen of March, three suns were seen in heaven, of which the middle was greatest, and in the eleventh of january and seventeenth of March, three Moons were like seen: in the same year the Sweveland men stirred an uproar, against the Duke of Wirtenbergensis, which much vexed him. And above. 40. thousand Moscovites, were slain of the Polanes, by the river Boristhenes.  
In the year of our Lord. 1523. at Tigurie in Helueria, in the sixth Nonas of May, three suns were seen together, and sundry circles seen together in heaven: after which in the same year, followed a reformation of Churches, with the casting forth of Idols, instituted and stablished at Tigurie. In Holland the same year, a great commotion attempted.  
In the year. 1525. before the death of Lewes king of Hungary, in Hungary were seen three suns, which without doubt signified, the three kings should contend for the Empery, as Ferdinandus, Duke john of Saxony, and the great Lurk.  
In the year. 1527. in Sweveland, three suns, and sundry celestial circles were seen.  
In the year. 1528. and in the seventeen day of june, at Tigurie many suns were seen, and about them three circles: in the next year following, a cruel battle fought within the Country of Helvetia.  
In the year. 1532. and in the eleventh day of April, in the second hour of the day, three perfit suns and bright, with two Rainbows, were seen to many.  
In the year of our Lord. 1551. about the Calends of April, in the famous University of Witebergensis, three Suns with sundry celestial circles were seen. And in the same year, in the. 28. day of February three suns with divers circles were seen at Antwerp.  
In the year of our Lord. 1553. on the Saturday before Palm Sunday, in the morning between seven and eight, three suns appeared, of which the middle shined the brighter, and the other two of either side, read and bloody. These being set, and in the night time, three Moons were seen.  
In the year. 1554. in Bavaria, and in the borders of the same Country, in the month of March, sundry manner Suns were seen, with certain celestial circles. At Ingolstadie in Germany, in the sixth day of March, two Suns with a Rainbow, between eight and nine in the forenoon. At Norenberge, in the 23. day of March, about one at after noon, both Suns and Arckes appeared together included with crystalline circles, for three hours together, with a beam into a just length extensed.  
In the year. 1555. the tenth day of February, three Suns were seen, in the year 1556. in the third Caldends of August, near Basill, the firmament being clear, three Suns were seen together. In the same year, in the sixth day of December, the singular learned of the University of Witebergensis, observed three suns in the Firmament.  
In the year. 1567. on saint Stevens day, in the tenth hour before noon at Francoforde were three suns very bright seen, for an hour and a half: of which the one toward the East, the other toward the West placed, and a celestial Bow in the top of heaven, that turned again the back to the three suns. And in the same year were seen again three suns, in the fourth day of may, about the seventh hour at evening.   

Of thunder, what the ●ame is.  
THunder is a fearful noise in a thick cloud, which is forced by an exhalation hot and dry, included within a cloud, which with a rumbling seeking issue forth, brasteth out b● great violence, and on each side beateth and shaketh the cloud. Plynie reporteth, that it is a noise caused through the quarter of the compact fire breaking out of the cloud. Or it may thus be defined, that the thunder is a noise caused in the clouds, through the driving and smiting of the exhalation unto the sides of the cloud. Albertus writeth, that it is the crack and noise of a dry vapour, issuing forth of a moist cloud. Seneca in his second book, of natural questions, thus defineth thunder: it is a spirit or breath (saith he) running in the clouds that causeth the thunder: and after it hath contended with the resistant matter brasteth out, which in that running away kindleth the fire. And the variety of the noises or rumbling of the thunder: is caused of the same: that the clouds be unequal, and that they have as it were certain hollow places, and are no where whole together.   

The kinds of thunder.  
THe thunder is, after two manner or ways: For the thunder is either vehement or great: or else weak or small.  
The thunder weak or small, is when an exhalation runneth forth in the clowde● and is driven from side to side without rapture and breaking of the cloud. And this is, after three ways, as crashing, whistling, and blowing.  
1. The same crashing, or making a noise like to the rubbing of a cord, is caused through the smiting of clouds, which even then are changed into water: and it is like to the noise, which is heard, in the quenching of a hot burning iron in cold water.  
2. The same whistling is, when the exhalation is not yet kindled, nor forted forth, and that the clouds in thickness are not a like equal: so that in divers parts of them, especially in the thinner, doth the exhalation braced forth. Of which, this whistling thunder is the like noise, as is of the winds blowing strongly through narrow holes: where the vapour not yet forced forward by divers parts of the cloud, breaketh in the end through the thinner.  
3. The blowing thunder is, when the cloud is so weak, that it can not keep the exhalation kindled. So that before the vapour is kindled, the same issueth forth without any vehement noise, even like the noise that the Smiths bellows cause or make.  
The vehement or great thunder is, when the exhalation strongly and vehemently cutteth or breaketh the cloud, through which a fearful noise is caused, even like to the tearing of a broad cloth. And this is, four manner of ways: as either it is rumbling, either breaking or tearing a sunder, either violent, or cracking.  
1. The same rumbling or making a hideous noise is, when the vapour or exhalation shaketh the cloud with a certain rumbling, but meddleth not together. The thunder also is a sounding which maketh a noise▪ like to the humming of many men talking in a Cloister or such like vaulted place: as when the vapour doth so much smite the sides of the cloud, but not cleaveth, and that flame than appeareth, as it were thorough a cloth torn a sunder.  
2. The thunder cutting is the same, which first smiteth it, but after cutteth out the cloud, which noise immediately showeth the thwart lightning brasting forth. The violent thunder is the same, which by one enforcement cleaveth the cloud.  
3. The thunder cracking or shaking is, when the exhalation kindled, divideth the cloud, of which certain parts issue. This kind of thunder maketh the like noise, as the cracking of wet wood, burning in the fire. For it is a vapour kindled and dry, which in the issuing breaketh a sunder the cloud, even like as air Egg laid on coals that brasteth.  
The efficient cause of the thunder, is the sun working with the other hot stars, as the Astrologians report. For when the Sun, jupiter, Mars, and Mercury, are placed in hot signs, and feet places, especially when jupiter is joined to Mars, by any condition of beams, are wont to cause thunder, and to prepare the matter of them.  
The matter of the thunder is a compound vapour, or an exhalation very hot and dry, conjoined with a moist vapour. This matter is drawn up by the heat of the sun, unto the middle region of the air, where it changeth into a moist cloud, or is together elevated with a moist vapour, as affirmeth Aristotle, by which compared and thrust together, in the end brasteth forth. A question might here be moved, how it happeneth, that thunder is sometimes heard in the air, and no clouds appearing. The answer is, that the same happeneth, when the exhalation is beaten back●● by the middle region of the air, and kind●●d, for so much it cleaveth then the air meeting it, and breaketh open the same, through which it causeth a little or low noise of thunder: even like the noise that are heard sometimes in the air, after the manner of armed horsemen swift riding.   

What the final cause of the thunder.  
THe final causes and effects of the thunder, are well weighed and known in that the air first by the thunder is purged, and the evil vapours consumed, yea the pestilence and other contagiousness often cleansed and put away.  
In the second, for that the thunders do often bring showers with them, through which the earth plentifully yieldeth.  
In the third, the almighty God thundereth in the clouds, to the end that men may be procured unto a due reverence and fear towards him: and they abashed, and warned of the divine ire, may hearty repent them, as it is written in the .104. Psalm: at the voice of the thunder shall the people be afraid.  
In the fourth, that the wicked, obstinàte, and impenitent, which even like Giants wage battle against heaven, may be destroyed either with lightning, Thunder, Hail, and such darts of God, as the History mentioneth of the people in Egypt, unto the Mount Synay.   

What the colours of the clouds warn and foreshow in the thunders.  
THe cloud in the thunder being white, is little or nothing to be feared. For it signifieth the exhalation to be weak, and the great abundance of vapours.  
2 The cloud in the thunder being very black, pressing the vapour strongly together through his thickness, sendeth a noise lightly forth very fearful: especially when the inner fume copious and thicker, can not be broken or divided a sunder, without a great enforcement.  
3. The cloud from black waxing read, or being read, procureth a mightier crack and noise, than the black cloud. For this is very thick, and hath or containeth much of the fiery vapour.  
4. The cloud with a blackish redness waxing green, or appearing green, is the most perilous of all, and very much to be feared, if the same consisteth or abideth directly over any city or house. This cloud for the redness, hath many fiery vapours: For the blackness, an abundant vapour thickened together: For the greenness, the mighty abundance of water. Of these, a mighty and fearful rumbling, is to be looked for in the air.  
5. The same cloud, often sheddeth and sendeth down mighty hail, and prodigious stories in the lightnings, not without most grievous loss and destruction, both of men, beasts, Cities, and other matters.  
The cause why before, and after the thunder, mighty or stormy winds arise, is forhat the hotter and drier part of the exhala●●n pressed together of the cold cloud compassing about, which through his dryness piercing the cloud, and issuing forth, doth move the air, and causeth the wind. So ●hat after the cloud broken, and the vapour driven or sent forth in the air: expe●●ence teacheth, that the winds by a great ●●forcement to be moved or driven forward.  
The cause why the very often thunde●●gs, threaten the Pestilence most grievous, and murrayne to beasts, and the corruption also to crescent things which we feed upon: is for that the corrupt vapours, gross and clammy, drawn up with the vapour and exhalation, corrupting the lowest region of the air, are shed again, and infect the air.  
Cardanus writeth, that those thunderings be dangerous, which continue about an hour, and they foreshow to that region in which they happen, battles, and seditions for the more part, and a most great desolation to come.  
The daily experience instructeth us, that through the thunder vehemently rumbling, and the lightning: both Wine, and Beer sellars are greatly harmed. For the Wines loose their colour, and natural taste, through the fiery heat, and virtue piercing, and burning. The Beer, or Ale, also through the mighty noise, and violent motion, purchaseth an eagerness: by which it is caused less apt to be drunk. And although the Summer heat be the especial cause, that drinks, and liquors sour or be eager: ye the thunder and lightning, procure a sudden alteration, yea in the Winter Months, when the heat by little and little causeth the same. The drinks and Wines laid in a deep seller vaulted, receive lesser harm of the thunder, than those laid a high in a boarded seller. The Vintner's use plates of iron with salt, or with Flintstones, or with the branches of the Bay or Walnut tree, and put them on the vessels: when the beer or Ale hath lost the natural taste, or waxeth sour, you may help each with Physic and sweet smelling things, & purchase the proper taste of these, as with the root of the Flower de Luce, the Ginger, the Nutmeg, the Cloves, the Bay berries, and the dry leaves of the same, the Calamus odoratus, the Organy, the beets. etc. The Wines soured, and having lost the natural colour, through the mighty noise of the thunder, may be recovered both of the colour and proper taste: if ●o be the Wines shifted into other vessels being well washed, and this decoction, that is, of the Bay leaves, the Myrtill tree, the Fennel, the juniper berries, and Orminium, infused before for a time in the vessels, and after the drying, the Wines ponred in.   

Certain foreknowledges of thunder.  
THe prognosticating of tempests, are not only pleasant to be known, but right profitable to be learned: as well of husbandmen, as of those traveling by sea and land. Of which, only certain general of Thunders, shall here briefly be uttered, that may rightly be applied.  
1. The Sun in the morning, or at Evening in the Summer time, and unto these (the harvest beginning, and the spring quite gone) with an accustomed heat shining: seen also in a hollow and big or very thick cloud, threateneth great thunder to follow.  
2. The shootings in the night, out of the four quarters of the world (a black cloud arising out of the South) wastingly running, do either foreshow thunder & lightnings to follow, or a mighty coming of winds very tempestuous blowing in that region, and these according to the season of the year.  
3. If a boisterous whirl wind, vehemently blowing, happeneth either in the Summer, the spring, or harvest, that shall lift or take up straws, dust, & other things by a sudden, and the element spread or covered with black clouds: doth portend thunder, and showers of rain to be at hand.  
4. If the Summer and hot days, and those which went before them of the spring, and the harvest days that follow, wax and be hot above the season of the year: and a Rainbow showeth itself at the West (in the going down of the Sun) pronosticateth fearful thunder, & lightnings greatly to be doubted.  
5. The morning thunder, and in the Winter time, doth pronounce wind and showers of rain: but the noon time thunders, especially foreshow great showers.  
6. Thunderings moved and heard in the last hour of the day (as at Evening) do either demonstrate a mighty tempest of the Sea, or the celestial ire.  
7. In the Summer, if it less thundereth, than lighteneth, signifieth rain to ensue.  
8. The Summer thunderings, happening at noon, and at Evening, is a note of rain to follow.  
9 If mightily thundering, it than raineth not, yet doth it show rain coming for the more part: and this happeneth according to the condition of the air, and season of the year.  
10. Plynie affirmeth, that if it shall thunder, when Hens do sit, that the Eggs to perish: but this generally, do women (of experience) deny.  
11. Hermes, an observer of celestial matters writeth: that the thunders of januarie, to promise' mighty winds, and the abundance of corn. The thundering in February, threateneth the death of many, and especially of the rich. The thundering in the month of March, portendeth mighty winds, firtylitie, and populare battles. The thunders of April, promise' a good and joyous year. The thundering in May, threateneth famine and scarcity. The thunders of june, signify a fruitful yield, and the plenty of victuals. The thunders of july, promise' a plentiful increase of victuals, but the scarcity of fruits. The thundering in August, portendeth a prosperous estate of the common wealth, but many diseases and sicknesses. The thunders of September, signifieth firtilitie, but the death of the Nobility. The thundering in October, pronounceth mighty winds, with the scarcity of fruits and victuals. The thunders of November, promise' the large increase of corn, and joy to men. The thunders of December, declare the abundance of victuals, and agreement of the people. The learned Beda writeth, that if thunder be first heard, coming out of the East quarter, the same foreshoweth before the year go about or be ended, the great effusion of blood.  
That if thunder first heard out of the West quarter, than mortality, and a grievous plague to ensue.  
That if thunder be first heard out of the South quarter, threateneth the death of many by shipwreck.  
That if thunder be first heard out of the North quarter, doth then portend the death of wicked persons, and the overthrow of many.  
Other observations of the ancient, that may be used of any that will, without superstition, as touching the thunder, may a man further read, in my book of the Mirror of time.   

Of that lightning named Fulgur what the same is, and of the others.  
IT is an exhalation kindled through the often agitation, like to tow, by which the matter seeketh issue, which yet to the earth falleth not: or the same is, when the only fire showeth: So that the same is caused, when the cloud is thin, and yieldeth to the breaking forth of the fire without noise. The like is that named Fulgetrum, saving that it showeth weaker, and of lesser light: although many name the Fulgetrum, to be the often repeatings together of the fire, which the like are usual in Harvest. That flashing much like a glistering light, is the same which out of the kindled exhalation ariseth, which by the sides of the cloud is forced and driven forth. Or it is the sudden appearance through time, of the subtle vapour and kindled, running along by the air, which is discerned, before the thunder be heard: and no marvel, in that the light is far swifter than the noise, and the sight always goeth before the hearing, as by a like in the cutting of timber: yet after nature, is the light the later. For the exhalation hot and dry, is carried into the middle region of the air, and before it higher assendeth, of the vapour together elevated, and forced into a thick cloud, is the same compassed and included: and when it can delate itself no more, through the watery and cold cloud, it than wandereth about the whole cloud, and seeketh issue forth, which when it findeth not, as disdaining breaketh then the cloud, through which violent breaking forth, is that noise caused, which we name the thunder: and together with that motion, in which it wandered by the cloud, and clave the cloud, is the same kindled: and when this sparseth the flame as it were abroad in the air, then is it named Fulgur. The difference between the thunder and broad lightning is, that the thunder is the self same noise in the air, which the vapour causeth running in the cloud, and seeking issue forth: But the broad lightning is the self same fiery brightness, which ariseth of the vapour issued and kindled. For when it contended through the resistance, and broke forth, that flying away kindled the fire. The flashing lightning properly is none other, than a brightness of the exhalation kindled, and breaking forth of the cloud, which shineth abroad in the air. But that named Fulgetrum, is a lesser lightning, and darker flame in the air. So that the same is named Fulmen or the perillousser lightning, when the whole exhalation kindled is sent downward. But that weaker lightning named Fulgur, is when the brightness only of that exhalation kindled, shineth in the air. Thus Seneca reporteth, in the first book of natural questions. That the clouds meanly smiting together, cause the weak lightnings: but the clouds smiting together by a greater force, 'cause the violent lightnings. The diversity of colours in the lightning, proceedeth of the diversity of matter, in that one whiles white and clear, an other whiles yellow and dark, and other whiles read, and fumous or dark it appeareth: even as the divers colours, that are discerned in the clouds. The white and clear lightning, proceedeth of the subtle and thin vapour: or of a thin exhalation, in a cloud over watery, whereof it sustaineth not a vehement heat and burning. Hereof the bodies, which this toucheth, doth it little or nothing burn, so that more by beam, than by the fire, doth it harm. This sometimes is profitable to fruits, and a little to the leaves of Trees, if it happeneth in an apt place, and time. The dark yellow lightning, proceedeth of a thin and somewhat clammy fume, in which the flame is shining, and portendeth a vehement heat and perilous fire, if the same especially be sent downward. The read lightning is caused, through a thick cloud, and the exhalation well fermented or mixed together, which brasteth forth with a terrible noise in the swelling air. The grosser vapour of this hardly kindled, procureth a very dangerous flame, which even through the middle of the rain forceth and worketh his fearful properties. This lightning many times, setteth cities on fire, and burneth even into the earth, water not prevailing or able to resist it (such is the mighty force of this celestial fire) that so violently and grievously destroyeth. The fumous and somewhat black lightning, proceedeth of a very earthly and obscure, yet a matter mightily burning, whose cloud, in that it containeth very much of the viscous moisture, is wont to fabricate or form a black or yronnie stone, which in the shot sent forth, burneth hastily mighty bodies of trees, and sundry other most solid matters, without show or sign left behind: yea, these and other matters this cleaveth, destroyeth, and utterly wasteth. The lightnings in the night, are plainer and more apparent, then in the day time, through the suns presence, by whose beams and light above the earth, even great lightnings are hidden in the air to be seen. Here note, that many persons are often made blind, or ever after molested with a dimness of sight, which do look but with winking eyes on the lightnings: much more dangerous thought, to look on it with open eyes. The fishes, and any manner cattles, smitten with the mightier lightning, is dangerous to eat, in that the flesh and meat of such are infected with a venomous quality, as by trial hath been observed.   

Of the fearful and violent lightning.  
THis that the Physicians properly name lightning, is a common name, which is referred and applied unto every exhalation, which burning brasteth forth of the clouds. So that the lightning is referred unto the same exhalation, which thickened and gathered round in the middle of the cloud, smiteth or beateth the cloud by a longer space, and through the motion kindled, it at the last cleaveth & breaketh through the cloud, and is sent violently to the earth. For the fire forced of the cloud, is cast to the earth: even as the motion caused, in the burning of green wood. For that cause is this rightly named lightning, when the fire sent forth of the clouds, is carried even unto the earth, and either doth it burn, either break, or hurt somewhat on the earth. The flashing light, and the lightning, do not differ in the substance, but rather in the form and manner: for the flashing light is a fire lightlier kindled, which sparsed under the clouds, higher shineth in the air. But the lightning is that exhalation, which when the same is sent forth of the cloud, falleth to the earth. The engendering of the lightning, thus appeareth: that when the vapour driven or moved in the cloud is kindled and brasteth out of the moist cloud, then moistened again and gathered together, as it were into a certain Mass, which stirred and moved again is so hardened, even as clay dried and hardened by the heat of fire. This Mass on this wise baked and hardened, is named the lightning. So that the same is engendered of a thick vapour, dry and viscous, which is gathered round together of the cold vapours, and breaking forth by great force and noise, and descending even to the earth, cleaveth, overthroweth, windeth about, scattereth into many parts, yea destroyeth and consumeth by divers means, bodies there found hard and solid, through the motion, light, and blast. How many kinds of lightning there are, can hardly be uttered, in that the nature of the lightning is so divers and marvelous, through which a sufficient reason of the same can scarcely be given. Yet marvelous are the works of lightnings, if a man well consider them: and nothing to be doubted at, but that a secret and divine power consisteth in them. Also certain it is, that the lightnings not to proceed or come by hap, nor only caused through the motion of the matter, in that these sometimes are caused and sent down by the almighty God governing, nor such can be applied unto natural causes, in that they often foreshow some evil, and call men to repentance. Yet is their study to be commended, which (after the possibility of man's nature) have diligently sought out, the causes of these matters. To be brief, Aristotle, Plynie, Seneca, and others, do make three differences of lightnings, and these, according to the diversity of the matter and effect, unto which all the other kinds may be referred and reduced. For the one kind is cutting a sunder, an other making swartish, and the third burning: or there is one astonishing or causing stiff, an other black burning or fumous, and an other clear or flaming.  
1. The lightnings cutting, are those: which do not burn, but do pierce and part in sunder things resisting, through the quality of the matter, of which consist, the great drowte and plenty of winds and spirits, which they violently take with them. For these break and part into small pieces the object matter, before that it can be burned of the lightning. In that the vapour is swifter than the lightning. Otherwise is the same named astonishing, not burning, but piercing and parting into small pieces. For such is the pureness and thinness of the flame, that it may pierce through most strait places, and for the mighty sturdiness of the matter, may especially part into pieces. For the spirit or dry vapour is carted forth of the cloud, with a most swift motion, and thus entered into bodies full of poors and penetrable, it parteth them in pieces. So that this kind of lightning, is named the astonishing lightning, through the cold expelled by heat: for that it consisteth of the mightiest virtues, and is of a marvelous nature, and by a most swift motion also doth the spirit or dry vapour consume all things. This burneth man inward, and consumeth the body to ashes, without harming the garments, it slayeth the youngling in the womb, without harm to the mother, it consumeth money, the purses remaining whole, it melteth the sword the sheath being whole, it harmeth the hand the glove not perished, and the vessel broken, it so astonisheth the wine, that for three days after, the wine sheddeth or runneth not forth. For the matter of this lightning, is very subtle, and lightly piercing the thing stricken: so that it burneth those matters which resist it, as stones, iron, and such like. Here note an example, of one Martia an honourable woman of Rome, who being with child, had the youngling stricken and killed of the lightning in her womb, and she abode without harm: and if the histories be true, she escaped after without harm. Eutropius reporteth, that a marvelous kind of lightning, happened on the birth day of Cicero, which was on this wise: a certain Maiden of Rome journeying into Apulia, was smitten by the way with the stroke of lightning, all the garments shifted from her body without cutting a sunder, and both the Tire and knittings on the breast, legs, and feet consumed, the Bracelets, Kings, and other ornaments melted, so that she lay naked on the ground, the body not harmed. And the horse with the same slain, lay bore, having neither bridle, saddle, nor no furniture on him. etc.  
2. The lightning making swartish, is the same which burneth not, but for the paucytie and thinness of matter only maketh swartish or dark brown the resistaunt matters, even like the smoked parts coloured of fire, that can not burn. Otherwise is the same named blackish to smoke: in that all things which this smiteth both within and without, it maketh blackish, even like soot of a small time made, and leaveth behind a show & note of a fiery smoke, and for the overmuch subtleness and thinness, it flieth out and pierceth, before that it can burn the resistaunt matter. As may evidently appear by the vines, trees, corn, and herbs, blasted with this lightning.  
3. The lightning burning, is the same which having much of the earthly matter, when it is sent down, striketh and entereth into the thinner bodies, and smiting into soiled bodies forthwith dissolveth, destroyeth and wasteth, whose force for troth is to be marveled at. Otherwise is the same reported to be clear and flaming. This lightning is diversly caused: For the matter otherwise of the lightning, hath very much of the earthly and viscous matter. For which cause it burneth the resistaunt matters, especially if of the same substance, which may be burned, they consist, and imprinteth or showeth the notes of burning: yet the matter sometimes of the lightning, consisteth of the vapours, very subtle and impure. Hereof the bodies thin and having poors, this entereth without any note or show of hurt, and corrupteth the inner members: and the soiled bodies resisting, doth it part into pieces, & consumeth them. So that this slayeth a man, or any living beast, without any wound appearing, or note of hurt. And this also melteth the gold or silver in men's purses, the purses remaining unperished. Albertus' magnus applieth unto the lightnings of this kind, the depriving of sight, and the swelling of the face. For so much as we often see men beholding the lightnings become blind: yea and the face by that means so swollen, that a man can hardly know after the person. The same is caused through the thinness, and porosity of our skin and eyes, which lightly receive the subtle vapour, so that this corrupteth the radical moisture of the face, and swelleth the face, and drieth also the radical moisture of the eyes, through which dried, blindness of necessity must ensue.  
In what time of the year, the lightnings oftener happen, is here uttered: For the sightnings in Winter seldom appear to us, and the reason (as Plynie reporteth) is in that the material cause is not so copious, as in other times the same is wont to be: for in the Winter time the exhalation is only moist and cold, which gathered into the clouds, receiveth a very hot force, and although the same shall not be perceived, yet is it suddenly extinguished through the force of the cold. Further, every vapour of the earth, is stiff and very cold: For which cause in Scythia, and in the Country's farther North (it is to be supposed) that it seldom lighteneth. And in Summer, in the hotter Countries, few lightnings are cau●sed: for that in the Summer, the exhalation is only hot and dry, which in no manner (o● very hardly) can be gathered and thickne● into a cloud. Whereof in Aethiopia, ●●gypt, and in the Countries under the Tr●●pick of Cancer, for the exceeding heat, lightning do seldom happen. But with us i● the Summer time, dwelling Northwards lightnings are oftener caused, in that the heat of summer is not so great, that it can consume all the matter or substance of the clouds. Even so in the mean seasons of the year, as in the spring time, and harvest, lightnings are oftener caused: in that the constitution of these seasons, ministereth to the air much matter, as well dry, as moist.  
The cause why man or beast is so slain, that no token of the hurt or wound appeareth: is for that the force and subtleness of the kindled vapour, by which at a 〈◊〉 pierceth through the skin, and penetrable flesh, through out porous, and blasteth the vital members with a pestilent poison, and with the venomous quality and virtue (which all lightnings are named to have) it slayeth. The same may very well be applied unto the foot hurt, and the shoe not perished, and to the sap of trees corrupted, the tree remaining whole, without any corruption of the wood.  
The cause why money is so molten with the lightning, the purse or money bag remaining whole, and the sword in like manner, the sheath abiding unperished: is for that these bodies are porous, which lightly yield to the mighty spirit, and subtle lightning vapour, in which if such a mighty force of striking be, through the great violence, it than parteth into small pieces the resistaunt and hard bodies: if such a force of burning, it than melteth. Such is the violence of this, that it throweth down pinnacles of stone, yea Towers most strongly wrought, and other buildings, mighty stones also it parteth in pieces, & such matters which have any resistance and hardness in them, this overthroweth.  
The cause why lightnings often smite most high places, as steeples, towers, and among trees, the high Oak in especial, and high Mountains: is for that such which be the higher, are the more open to injuries of the clouds in the air, and by the course running here and there, these bodies in the way resisting, happen to be stricken and spoiled. And every agent mightier worketh near hand, then that which by a great space is distant. The other cause divine is, in that evil spirits dwelling in the air, do often stir up and cause (through God's sufferance) cruel tempests, and spoil like places, by God's due vengeance.  
The cause why nets lying in the water, may be burned of the lightning: is for that the flame of the same, hath much of the Brimstonie and viscous matter, so that fallen into water it may burn, the same having attained the due matter. And the same do our Artificers prove in Gunpowder, of which the whole Art ensueth the celestial lightnings. And the like in a manner, may a man see in lime, which through the pouring upon of water, waxeth hot and is kindled.  
The cause why the lightning cutteth or parteth a vessel in pieces, or is burnt with the lightning, the Wine remaining whole together for a certain space, as if the same were coagulated: is through the lightning, which hath very much of the Brimstonie substance and viscosity in it, which by piercing into the whole substance of the Wine is sparsed: hereof through the heat, what soever is fast holding, is forced and sent into the furthest extending of the Wine, & both dried and boiled again, through the fiery spirit of the lightning, that worketh a certain skin, which stayeth the Wine from running forth, for a certain time, and the same as it were with a skin compassed about retaineth. So that these miraculously are caused by one enforcement, and as it were in a moment. The same judgement, may be uttered of the others like.   

What the lightning Dart is.  
THe same is the stone of the lightning, as the later writers report, which sometimes in wedge forine, sometimes round, and sometimes in pillar form, falleth with a mighty force into the earth, and both cleaveth, scattreth, destroyeth, and burneth the resistaunt bodies and matters.   

The manner of the engendering of the Stone.  
THe vapour of the lightning is dry, and sometimes somewhat clammy, of a certain metalline matter, earthly and thick, which through the much motion and divers agitation falling into a moist cloud, is conglutynated (even like meal tempered with water, and baked) and in the end hardened into a soiled yronnie, or stonnie Mass, even like potter's clay, baked into a stone.  
This exhalation aswell flashing forth of the clouds, as the lightning, consisting for the more part in a green or black cloud big swollen, with a certain clammy matter, gathered round through the cold moisture shed about of the cloud, and a most sharp heat following, procured of the Sun and stars, also through the motion and cold expelled, is the same hardened into a soiled and stony body, in the like order as the baked Tiles, which framed before of moist and soft clay, are after through dried and baked hard as a stone of the burning fire, in the proper Tile furnace. And the same Dart of the lightning is sharpened at the neither end, in that the moisture mixed with the drieth, searching to issue tendeth downward, and of the same is there formed sharp, but the dry substance is in the upper part gathered and framed round, as the thicker in form. And this dart oftentimes in the lightnings, worketh heavy and lamentable haps on the earth. The things which seldom or never, are stricken with lightning, be the Eagle, the Bay tree, and Seal, insomuch that a Garland of the Bay tree worn, defendeth the person from lightning, as the ancient report. The Sellers, vaults, or the very deep places under the earth, are thought to avail against the lightning. In that the ancient affirm, that the lightnings enter not above five foot into the earth. Of this (Augustus Caesar) as Histories report, when a tempest of thunder, and lightning happened, he then hasted into a deep vault under the earth. Here note, that no lightning is with out fire. For fiery it is named, in that the same imprinteth and showeth manifest signs of fire in the burning, scorching, & making swart. Also a venomous beast stricken with the lightning, they say to loose the poison, or to be purged of the poison: but the lightning striking a beast not venomous, poisoneth the same, and this happeneth, in that of the same doing, divers effects are sometimes caused, by reason of the matter otherwise disposed. Even as it appeareth of a certain wind, putting out one Candle, and kindling or lightning an other.   

Of the marvelous force, nature, and miracles, of the lightnings.  
THe lightning receiveth and hath a divers nature and effect, in that it cutteth, cleaveth, burneth, and s●ayeth beasts with the touching, it sometimes happening venomous, burneth the hard, and pierceth the think bodies, if it shall be without burning, it engendereth a violent and tempestuous wind, in which storm, trees are winded about, houses and other strong buildings thrown down, and the Sea mightily tossed.  
2. Certain is the same, by the report o● writers, that every thing to be shaken and blasted: before the lightning smite it, and that no person to be touched, which either afore shall see the lightning, or hear the thunder.  
3. When a beast waking is stricken with the lightning, being dead hath the eyes fast shut, but stricken sleeping, hath the eyes open: and lying on the ground, is turned by it of the other side.  
4. The lightning consumeth the sword or meat knife in the sheath, without harm of the sheath. It melteth the money in the purse, as afore uttered: it perisheth the foot, without harm of the shoe. In that it entereth the same, being full of poors, without resistance: but about solyde and resisting bodies, it longer stayeth in consuming them. It sometimes like hurteth the bones, without spot appearing on the flesh, in that through the weak resistance and speedy piercing of the fire, the flesh is not harmed of it: as may appear of the hand, speedily thrust in and handling the burning flame.  
5. The lightning sometimes parteth asunder trees, as if those were cloven with a wedge, without burning, and sometimes staineth and blacketh by the touching, without burning, and sometimes burneth both houses and barns: the cause of the first, is the vehemency of the stroke: the cause of the second is the thinness, and weakness of the exhalation: the cause of the third, is the thickness of the matter of the exhalation, for that the fire in the substance more thick, doth stronger burn: even as it may appear in the iron read hot: but in the matter lesser or not so thick, it lesser burneth, as may appear in the Tow.  
6. The lightning poisoneth beasts stricken, even like the bit of a Serpent, and mad Dog: in that the matter of the same lightning, is Brimstonie and venomous.  
7. The same is to be marveled at, which Seneca reporteth, as that wine vessels to be burned with the lightning (as afore uttered) the wine remaining whole, and not shedding: the wine the while, not contained in any body. Also the lightning doth so intoxicate the Wine stricken, that the drinkers of it either die, or become frantic and mad.  
The same is caused, through the infective nature of the lightning: and the reason of the astonishing of the Wine, is the hasty alteration, by which the whole clamminess of the Wine, is drawn forth into the outward upper face, where, like a thin skin about retaineth the Wine, that the same shed or run not abroad, for three days.  
8. The lightning striking a person sleeping, doth open the eyes of the sleeper: but of the person then waking or awake, it shutteth the eyes. The cause of which is, in that the lightning causeth the sleeper to awake, but the person awake, it astonisheth in such manner, that he shall sooner die, then that he can open the eyes again for the time, as the ancient report.  
9 The person stricken and touched with the lightning, doth after turn the head and face toward the stroke, from whence the lightning came. The cause of this, doth Albertus Magnus here show: in that the force of the stroke coming, converteth or turneth the stricken bodies toward the stroke, and natural is the same to every creature, to turn itself toward the harm suddenly coming, in holding the face toward it.  
10. The lightning sometimes harmeth the youngling in the mother's womb, the mother remaining unharmed: the cause of which is the tenderness of the youngling, and strength of the mother: as by a like example afore uttered, of the noble woman Martia of Rome.  
11. A dead Serpent stricken with lightning becometh full of worms, which otherwise happeneth not to it alive. The cause is, in that through the lightning it is purged of the proper poison, which also is of an other nature, than the lightning, so that the same then hindereth not the procreation of worms.  
12. The lightning sometimes burneth and consumeth the garments on the body, yea the shoes on the feet, many times it only burneth the hears on the head, without harm of the body, which is caused thorough the weakness of the exhalation: But this sometimes killeth a man, without any hurt or mark appearing, or any sign of burning. The same caused through the subtleness of the exhalation, which if the same shall be gross, leaveth a note of the burning.  
13. Such which long look up at the lightning, and hold their faces against the lightning, are either caused blind, or swollen in the face, or procured leprous. The same happeneth thorough the fire received by the poors of the countenance and eyes, which like swelleth the face, and drieth up the crystalline humour, that is cause of the blindness.  
14. The places of such which are stricken and burnt with the lightnings, are caused colder than the other parts of the body: either for that the greater heat, draweth away with it the lesser, or else in that by the great violence, the vital heat is so extinguished quite in those places, by report.  
15. Such bodies stricken with the lightning, have or possess after a Brimstonie savour: in that the matter of the lightning is Brimstonie, as the Philosopher Niphus reporteth.  
16. This Niphus uttreth that the lightning speedier burneth solyde and hard bodies, than the soft: as the same of skill known, and many times observed.  
17. The thunderbolt sent forth with the lightning, never deeper runneth or entereth into the earth than five foot, after the opinion of sundry observers.  
18. In the year. 1553. in the Month of july, in a town of Germany named Smelunicensis, while the people before dinner were at divine service, a mighty light sodaynedly shined, and a lightning in the same killed two persons, and about thirty other persons with his force and vehemency of the exhalation, threw to the earth, which yet through the goodness of God, contrary to man's judgement and estimation, were yet preserved alive: of which also certain had their garments burnt, yet their bodies unharmed, by a miracle of God.  
19 The Romans in times past, divined and judged of the lightnings: which if those came from the left part or side of heaven, and returned into the same again, they pronounced those to be happy and prosperous. For on such wise Anchyses (after the Roman manner) prognosticated good luck, if the lightning happened on the left side. And Cicero in his second book de Divinatione, reporteth the same to be good luck in all matters travailed about, if the lightning shall happen on the left side. But the Greeks and Barbarians, judged the lightnings prosperous, that came on the right side. The Bay tree is seldom harmed with the lightning: which rather of practice, than by reason allowed: for so much as it hath this repulsive virtue of the lightning through the inner cause, or of heaven. Of which Tiberius Caesar was wont, in the tempest of lightning, to wear on his head a Garland of Bays, supposing himself to be defended thereby.  
20. In the year. 1551. at Crutzburge a City in Germany, a certain honest man, having his house stricken with lightning, sitting then at table eating, perished with his Dog, lying flat at his feet: but an Infant sitting or being near to the father, nothing at all harmed. The mother of Hieronymus Fracastorius, going with child with him, died with the stroke of lightning the Infant remaining unharmed: which wonderfully foreshowed by it, the singular fame of that child to come.   

What an Earthquake is.  
AN Earthquake, is a passion or affection of the earth, a breaking forth or trembling, a smiting or agitation, when an exhalation is included in the bowels of the same, seeking a violent issuing forth: in the which, this so smiteth & shaketh the earth. And of the same smiting, is the Earthquake named. Or it is a certain working, by which the earth is moved, caused especially of wind or dry vapours, enclosed within the hollowness of the earth, and through the heat of the sun, and other stars heated and enforced, by which motion and enforcement, this so shaketh, that oftentimes houses, yea whole Cities, and towns, are thrown down, and sunk with the same, that the sins of men may be punished, and others called unto repentance.   

How many kinds of Earthquakes there are.  
OF the earthquake, whether the same may happen or not (I believe no man doubteth) seeing Histories report so many examples: and experience of late years, hath made the same known sufficiently to us. The kinds (to come to the matter) are known to be four principally, which are uttered of Plynie in his second Book, and 82. Chapter. Some report more, and some utter fewer kinds, which through the diversity, the plenty or paucytie of the exhalations, and force of the qualities arise and are caused. The first kind is named the falling or shaking down, the second the gaping open, the third the trembling, beating or shaking, the fourth the casting up.   

What the ruin is.  
THe ruin, falling, or shaking down, is when much and great store of dry vapour or wind, applying and driving by great force into one place, forceth itself, and turneth the same suddenly upsy-down, except the motion speedily runneth on the other side, which fallen, no more harm ensueth. With this was Smyrna the most noble City of the lesser Asia shaken & thrown down, as appeareth in the Apocalypse, in the first and second Chapter. And the son of God commanded the Church of Smyrna to write this notable comfort: Retain faith, and believe steadfastly unto death, and I shall give to thee a crown of life. Seneca nameth it an inclination, in that the earth leaneth to one side, like a ship. For as a ship leaning unto one side, is drowned through the mighty weight in it, unless the same weight speedily be turned unto the other side, through which the ship is so restored, & recovered as it were. Even so with the great plenty of spirits or wind, it applieth and driveth unto one side of the earth, doth in a manner overthrow the same, unless the contrary part restoreth the part inclined. Read Livius lib. 2. tertia Decadis.   

What the Gaping is.  
THe gaping, is when the earth rendeth with a large opening, and that a deep hollowness appeareth, and the breath or wind mighty and vehement, breaking violently forth, doth on such wise sink down, and swallow up Towns, and Cities. Or thus, this gaping, is a rending or cleaving of the earth, when the earth sinketh down, and swalloweth up Cities, houses, towns, and Castles, yea, great hills, and mighty rocks, with great rivers, and mighty lakes of water, in such manner, that these are never after seen. Where this swalloweth up any buildings, fortresses, or towns, in the places appear none other, than large and deep holes or gulfs.   

What the Pulsation is.  
THe Pulsation, is when the earth (as the same swelling up) ariseth by force of the winds, that the buildings (in that time) lean from one side to the other (as a Ship on the Sea) and sinketh soon after down again: which Aristotle nameth a beating or driving up. Otherwise, is the same named an agitation, shaking, or trembling. Or this otherwise, when with great violence the earth is lifted up, in such manner that Castles and buildings through their shaking, appear ready to fall: and the same doth immediately sink, and settle down again. Which manner is procured, when the whole force of the spirits laboureth and seeketh an issue upwards: even as the kindled Gunpowder, that searcheth way to braced forth: which at the last finding issue to pass causeth the earth swelled up, to fall and settle again in the proper place.   

What the fourth kind is.  
THe same is, when a mighty and huge substance of earth (like to a Mountain) is thrown out of the earth: or when any part of the earth sinketh deep down, thorough which either floods, lakes, or rivers, or else fires braced forth. This kind doth Aristotle very well open, where he uttereth: that the motion of the earth now caused in certain places, doth not cease, before that wind, which had moved forward, to cast up the earth on a great height above ground, and like a storm of smoke and ashes issued forth: which like lately happened by the Sea Heraclea, and before near the Island Hiera, which is one of them, which at this day they name Aeolias. For in this, a part of the earth swelled and rose up with a noise, into the kind of a light hill: which at the last breaking a sunder, much wind issued, that sent up fire and ashes. This also procureth the overflowings of the Sea, when the bottom of the same is raised and swollen up, through which, many Islands appear, that were never seen before. The learned Aristotle reporteth, that the Country Egypt in time past, was a great Gulf of the Sea, which through an Earthquake (as it should seem) procured to be dry land: and remaining in the same manner, unto this day: a like reporteth Herodotus.   

What the material cause is.  
THe material or effective cause near to the Earthquake, is the exhalation hot and dry, or the wind, engendered and included within the caves or dens of the earth, which seeking a violent issue, at his natural places, breaketh forth of the earth, and causeth in this manner, a violent shaking of the earth. And that the earth of his proper nature is dry, and prepareth vapours and exhalations, the same in a manner at this day, seemeth a marvel to few of any knowledge. For the same is sufficiently known, that it is caused by accidence. Yet further, the true cause of the earthquake or trembling of the earth, is the wind or dry vapour, gross and earthly, included of the earth, and otherwise sent in, or there engendered: so that manifest it is that such spirits or wind to be engendered in the earth. For well known is this, that the earth of itself is dry, but the same moistened with daily showers of rain, and the poors shut hard together, that the exhalation engendered or conceived brasteth not forth: and salt or sea waters 'cause the like, in that these through the saltness close or shut the poors of the earth, with which the same is on every side compassed, and in a manner swimmeth or runneth over it: and after with the beams of the sun heating, doth engender a great abundance of exhalations, which not so much breaketh up into the air, but that within itself often retaineth dry spirits or vapours, both gross and earthly, which cause the Earthquake. This sentence of Plynie of the material cause, do the Philosophers affirm and prove, that the same through the gathering of the spirits is engendered, and Aristotle in these conjectures, proveth by a like reason, that the Earthquake may so be caused.  
The first reason is taken of man's body, in which windy spirits, when in it they are included, are wont to 'cause a trembling or shaking, where the venting forth could not be caused.  
A second reason he gathereth and taketh of the condition of a quiet or calm air and season, when as the time is clear, and a great stillness in the night, and at Noon. Here or at that time, the spirits included in the earth, can not breathe forth.  
A third reason, through the plenty of matter, which caused greater in the spring and harvest, than in the other quarters or parts of the year. Of which, in those times for the more part, are Earthquakes caused.  
A fourth reason he uttreth of experience, for so much as the same by use is found, that the agitation not to cease, until the whole force of spirits shall have breathed forth.  
The fift and last of the precedent sound: for the earth causeth a roaring or sound, thorough the windy spirit met: before the same be smitten & resisted. The self same confirmeth the reason of the time, and places. For these are caused a little before the Sun rising, at what time the winds are wont for the more part to arise. In the Equinoctials also, when the greater force of vapours consisteth, than in the Solstices, and through the strait or narrow places, of the Sea, in which strait places, the wind is included: is wont there to be violenter, and seeking the caves or hollow places, doth so smite and shake the earth.   

What the formal cause is.  
THe formal cause, is the agitation and smiting of the earth: for the dry vapours and winds there included by his virtue, are lifted or forced up, seeking issue forth, but when this is no where open, thorough the passages of the earth stopped, are driven and sent back ward, with no mean force, through which striving the earth in the end is smitten and shaked. For by the overmuch heat or cold, is the issue of vapours procured, of which the smiting is caused. A sure & an evident note of this, are the winds in man's body included. For those shake even the whole body, when by force at the last they break forth: and the like is caused in the belching and refting, and in all other agitations of the body: of what condition soever they be. So that the same, which procureth the wind above the earth, and in the clouds thunder: the same causeth a trembling or shaking in the passages of the earth.   

Which the object or place is of the Earthquake.  
THe great Earthquakes are caused in the Sea coasts, where many exhalations may be included. For the Sea entereth into the earth as it were by certain pipes, and holloweth the same, where after the spirits or winds are engendered, which when they contend to issue forth, are repelled or driven back of the Sea floods, and are on such wise hid again in the bowels of the earth, which after increased, nor with those seeketh issue, do then smite against the sides of the earth.  
Aristotle reporteth, that the most mighty Earthquakes to be there caused, where the Sea daily floweth, or the Country is spungeous, or the same aboundeth with hollow places, caves and deep dens. For which cause, he affirmeth that such tremblings to happen oftener about Hellespontus, Achaia, Sicilia, and Euboea, through the Sea running near by, which as by certain pipes entereth into these places, and through his coldness driveth inward the exhalations. The Country of Holland, and other hollow places, through the multitude of caves, and inward holes, rightly named Holeland, which both the same, and others like, are subject to this evil.  
In places far from the Sea, are fewer Earthquakes caused: in that the earth there, is not so hollowed, and the Sea causeth not cliffs, nor beating or shaking with the great floods of waters, yet the sounder and faster any ground of the earth is, so much the more harmed at the shaking: for so much it mightier shutteth in the exhalations, and compelleth an enforcement in the cause.  
The islands, and the valleys, are seldom molested with the Earthquake: for so much as the parts of the earth in themself are pressed together, and are but a little porous, so that these cannot enter in.  
An earthquake is seldom caused in moist places, for so much as the moisture hindereth or letteth the exhalation to come unto strength, of which, the Philosopher reporteth, that in the floods of the Sea Pontus, a less Earthquake to be caused: for so much as the huge sea about, cooleth the exhalations and on such wise letteth them.  
In the sandy and gravelly places, as are the places Northerly, far sildomer is an Earthquake caused, yea scarcely any Earthquake at all caused in those places: for so much as the same ground is a thinner earth, and lesser solid, nor so thick compact, and that the fumes ascend by little and little, without force.   

How the engendering is, or of the manner of the engendering of Earthquakes.  
THe Earthquake is caused when the exhalations and vapours included in the caves, and hollow places or passages of the earth contend together, and by his nature seek on high to break forth: but through the earth close stopped, not finding way by force shake the same, and 'cause it to tremble, and in the end break forth: so that the earth oftentimes causeth either a gaping, or deep cave, or gulf, or the same thrown up on height after the manner of a hill or Mountain: of which great Mountains happen to be sunk and swallowed up in a Gulf: as sundry like we read in the Histories: yea great waters and rivers drunk up, and the course of waters changed, and land floods caused in the main land. Or thus, the earth containeth in itself a much exhalation, which it heating conceiveth, through the fiery efficacy and virtue of the Sun, the Planets, and fixed stars. This spirit, for that the same is subtle, is most apt to be enforced. So that when by it this dry spirit runneth, included within the earth, seeking issue, is so by his force lifted up, and driven from one hollowness into another. Of which this when for the soiled nature of the earth, and stopped passages of the earth, can not issue or pass forth, procureth lightly and soon a trembling in itself caused through the beating and driving back: so that retained, this strongly moveth and shaketh the earth, or seeking his way, and the spirit driven by a narrow body of the earth, laboureth with a most strong contention. For into the proper and natural place this contendeth to fly, which through the mighty stopping letted of the compact earth, is the same driven back into the earth: which at the length laboureth to issue, causing the same to tremble: and casteth up the earth▪ (in the breaking forth) like to a hill, until it be issued: yea this sometimes cleaveth the same, and openeth it in the issuing forth at two sides. Aristotle uttereth other notes, for after the earth beaten up, he reporteth that great winds to breath and fly up, and that fire and ashes to be cast forth. So that water not to be the special cause of the earthquake: for the water should otherwise be still, if the same were not blown and driven. Nor such a swiftness or hastiness of the trembling could be caused, if so much could be procured in the waters swelling, and that the earth could very often break. But it often breaketh not in the tremblings & shakings of the earth. Yet doth this pronounce the great plenty of vapours included in the caves of the earth, driven like winds by their force, and agitation sparsed by certain places, which when the same is caused, it instructeth that those places to tremble, thorough the might of the vapours forced. For it is manifest, that the earth to be full of vapours, & the thundering or rumbling which is heard in the shaking of the earth, is a note of the flying vapours. And for so much as the vapours open the passages of the earth, a water sometimes is shed out of the earth: of which, no such plenty consisteth, or is in the great Mountains, that might like smite them.  
How so great a heap of earth, of so thin and light a body as the wind, may be cast up, doth the Philosopher Aristotle here utter by a similitude, as in our body's spirits included, are cause of the tremblings or shakings and beating of the pulses: even so happeneth in the same earth, when a great force of the vapours gathered, move and shake it with their force.   

What the final causes are.  
THe final cause of an Earthquake, is the signification very sad & heavy, of matters and haps to come, as of battles, landfloodes, mutation of Emperies, the dearth of victuals. etc. For the Earthquakes always pronounce great calamities, as Plynie witnesseth, where he reporteth, that the City of Rome never trembled, but that the same was a foreshow of some hap to come or ensue: so that the Romans curiously observed the Earthquakes: as the same is manifest, in their Histories. Of the earthquake Cardanus reporteth, that the earth to be cleaved through a vapour, and not to be doubted, but that the same to prognosticate great seditions. Yea the great earthquakes denounce either a Battle, or the Plague, or a Tyrannical oppression: these also 'cause a dearth of corn, and famine. Yet the earthquakes sometimes threaten no other evils, than the overthrow (of proper Cities and Towns) and destruction or mortality of those persons, which devil in them. These hitherto Cardanus.  
The holy Scriptures utter the same, that in these motions the Lord God exerciseth, and showeth his most severe ire, punishing with these the people's sins, by a just judgement, unless they speedily repent. For it is written in the second book of Kings, and xxij. Chapter, that the ire of God was moved, and the earth trembled: for so much as the Lord God was angry with them. Even so before the Turckes took Gréece, for three, whole days together, the Earthquake shook the borders near, bounding, and many buildings fell down. Before the Peloponesian Battle, the country of Laconia was so fearfully shaken with an Earthquake, that whole towns fell, and much people destroyed, and overwhelmed in the fall of them. Eutropius writeth, that in the next year after the death of Paul the Apostle, Laodicoea and Colossa were sunk with an Earthquake, in which example both a punishment of the wicked was seen, which contemned Paul's doctrine, and a signification of calamities to come on Asia bordering near by, and of the cruelty, which Domitianus exercised in the same part of the world, when he compelled. S. john the Apostle to live in exile. The like happened an Earthquake before the death of Theodosius the second, which endured for six months, and shook Constantinople, and many other places of Asia. The earth gaping, many Towns were sunk. The Sca one where flying the gaping sunk and running an other way on the earth, overwhelmed & drowned many towns. These later years, were like examples seen in Germany, after which lamentable alterations ensued in the Roman Empire.   

What the effects are.  
THese are most lamentable, that through an Earthquake both the sinking and overthrow of houses and Cities are caused, as in the time of Tiberius Coesare happened, where in one night twelve Cities fell with an earthquake. Also particular land floods. For in this agitation of the earth, doth much water sometimes break forth, when the exhalation being deep is driven forth by a great force: for in that motion is the earth oftentimes dilated, and oftentimes islands Cities, and mighty mountains, by a mighty gaping sunk and swallowed: and a Region (through the shaking of an Earthquake) be spoiled. forsomuch as Islands Countries, and Hills, are driven up, and caused to appear, through an earthquake. Yea a grievous pestilence, many times ensueth an Earthquake. For so much as fumes, and venomous vapours, putrefied in the bowels of the earth, do infect the air with their rottenness. And this putrefied exhalaion, they name Memphitis, that is, a putried vapour.   

Which the signs be of an earthquake.  
THe first note, the learned utter of the Eclipsis, for the region or country, unto which the shadow of the Eclipse of the lights (as of the Sun and Moon) is converted or extendeth, is wont for the more part, to be subject to the harm of the earthquake & the same the certainer, if the Eclipse happen in the tail of the Dragon: which how much the greater, and generaller the same shall be, so much the mightier shall the shaking of the earthquake be: but how much the smaller, so much the weaker. etc.  
2 The second note, doth the Sun offer and show: when for certain days, the Sun shineth dim and dark, without any cloud covering him: and a marvelous calmness, with a couldenesse in the morning: and after the Sun setting (the element being clear) a thin cloud is stretched narrow and a long by the air: hath been observed, that an earthquake often to follow.  
3 The third, a fiery cloud, expressing the kind and form of a burning pillar in the air, yieldeth a most true and sure note (as Calistines the Philsopher reporteth) of an Earthquake to ensue.  
4 In the fourth, the water in deep pits and wells, before an Earthquake, is without a manifest cause troubled, and infected with a saltie savour, or with some other ungrateful smell and taste not natural, and this through the pestilent exhalations, which long within the earth, have been enclosed, and begin somewhat to be sent abroad, as uttered first Pherecides, the instructor of the wise Pythagoras, of whom the learned Pliny mentioneth in his second book, and 79. Chapter. And the like Cicero, in his fift book de Divinatione.  
5 In the fift a marvelous quietness and stillness of the winds silent in the region of of the earth, subject to the motion and earthquake, shut in and enclosed for certain Months afore, as the same observed by the ancient.  
6 In the sixth, by the seas and waves surging, a note may be gathered and learned, which the sailors perceive undoubted to ensue, when as the sea rageth and beateth without mighty winds procuring the like swelling. And the parts and things within ships like shake, as buildings on the earth and with a noise hard under the earth, that foreshow that motion or the earthquake.  
7 In the seventh, a thin cloud after the manner of a strake or line, very small toward the setting in the West, long and white, is seen (for the more part) to go before an agitation or trembling of the earth, by which note Anaximander confirmed sometimes to the Lacedæmonians for truth their predictions of these matters.  
8 In the eight, that Birds, with many four footed beasts leave or forsake the apt places ready to the shaking of the earth, seeking and abiding in new places, by which these may so defend them, from the injury near hand, and this so well proved and known by observations, as witnessed in the books of the ancient.  
9 In the ninth, the earth never trembleth or no earthquake is caused, but when the sea is calm and still, and the air so marvelous still that the Fowls flying have not breathe nor air to bear them in their flight, nor never have, but after winds breathed forth of hollow veins and Ca●es of the earth, included before in the same.  
10 In the tenth, a fearful roaring, thundering, and hideous sound like to the cry of men, and a noise sometimes like to the clittring of harnessed men heard in the earth before the earthquake cometh. But it sometimes happeneth, that this great roaring or thundering is heard in the earth, & no earthquake at all ensueth, as when the wind without beating and trembling of the earth findeth issue to pass.  
11 In the eleventh, that the Sun is seen of many, for certain days before, very misty and dim of light, as though he lost his light, or appeared as he were bloody: which dimness or like sight to our eyes is caused, through lack of the wind to dissolve and purge this thick and gross air, which at that time is enclosed within the bowels of the earth.  
12 To these may be added a twelfth note, which is the appearing of a Comet or blazing star, a time before. In these if many notes concur, the signification is the more certain. For none of these notes alone is to be considered and taken, that the same may be sufficient unto the signifying or foreshowing of an earthquake.  
Let this suffice (gentle reader) as touching the marvelous force, and miracles of the lightnings, with the other wonderful apparitions in the air, concluding that these are uttered, part for man's instruction and comfort, and part as warnings, to all christians for the amendment of life, by the fearful examples manifested in this treatise, not without the singular providence of God, in the forewarning us in such manner, of the many dangers hanging over our heads, in these perilous days. Thus my intent brought to an end, in most brie●● manner, I end this treatise.   
FINIS.